Norflox 200 Tablet

NORFLOX 200 TABLET

NORFLOX 200 TABLET, manufactured by Cipla Ltd., is an antibiotic medication combined with a probiotic, primarily used to treat various bacterial infections.

Composition

Each film-coated tablet contains:

• Norfloxacin, IP: 200 mg (a synthetic, broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic)
• Lactic Acid Bacillus: 60 million spores (a probiotic that restores good bacteria in the gut)

Uses

NORFLOX 200 TABLET is prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections, including:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), such as pyelonephritis, cystitis, and urethritis.
• Prostatitis (bacterial infection of the prostate gland).
• Gonococcal Infections (e.g., uncomplicated urethral and cervical gonorrhea).
• Certain Gastrointestinal Infections, particularly those causing diarrhea and stomach pain.
• Mild to moderate Respiratory Tract Infections.
• Prophylaxis against anthrax exposure.

It is not effective against viral infections like the common cold and flu.

Dosage and Administration

NORFLOX 200 TABLET should be taken as advised by a doctor.

• It is generally recommended to take the tablet on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, milk, or other dairy products.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew, crush, or break it.
• The dose and duration of treatment depend on the specific infection and patient's condition.
• Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
• Do not stop the medication course prematurely, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or worsening.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting
• Headache, dizziness
• Heartburn, abdominal pain/cramps
• Diarrhea
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Weakness, constipation, back pain, flatulence, skin rash.

Serious side effects, though rare, can include:

• Tendinitis and tendon rupture (especially in patients over 60, those with kidney/heart/lung transplants, or on corticosteroids).
• Central Nervous System (CNS) effects such as tremor, restlessness, confusion, hallucinations, convulsive seizures, anxiety, depression, and severe headaches.
• Exacerbation of muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis.
• QT prolongation.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to norfloxacin, other fluoroquinolones, lactic acid bacillus, or any other ingredients.
• Age Restriction: Not recommended for patients under 18 years of age due to potential risks to developing joints.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver/kidney diseases, heart rhythm disorders (QT prolongation), tendon problems, a history of seizures, diabetes, hypokalemia (low potassium levels), or muscle/nerve disorders (e.g., myasthenia gravis).
• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption, as it may increase dizziness.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before use if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
• Driving and Machinery: May cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• Drug Interactions: Avoid taking antacids (aluminum or magnesium-containing), iron supplements, multivitamins, didanosine, sucralfate, or zinc preparations within 2 hours before or after taking NORFLOX 200 TABLET, as they can interfere with absorption. Some quinolones may increase the effects of theophylline and caffeine.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about NORFLOX 200 TABLET by CIPLA LTD:

What is NORFLOX 200 TABLET used for?

NORFLOX 200 TABLET is primarily used to treat various bacterial infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), gonorrhea, prostatitis, and bacterial gastroenteritis. It is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or flu.

How does NORFLOX 200 TABLET work?

This medicine contains two active components: Norfloxacin and Lactobacillus. Norfloxacin is a quinolone antibiotic that kills bacteria by inhibiting a bacterial enzyme called DNA gyrase, which is essential for bacterial reproduction and repair. Lactobacillus is a probiotic that helps restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the intestine, which can be disrupted by antibiotics.

What is the usual dosage for NORFLOX 200 TABLET?

The dosage of NORFLOX 200 TABLET varies depending on the type and severity of the infection. It is typically taken on an empty stomach, either one hour before or two hours after meals or dairy products. For specific conditions like uncomplicated UTIs, complicated UTIs, prostatitis, or gonorrhea, your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose and duration. Patients with renal impairment may require a dose adjustment.

What are the possible side effects of NORFLOX 200 TABLET?

Common side effects can include nausea, headache, dizziness, stomach cramps, abdominal pain, heartburn, and diarrhea. More serious, though less frequent, side effects can involve tendinitis and tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), and central nervous system effects such as convulsions, tremors, confusion, or exacerbation of myasthenia gravis. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, consult your doctor.

Is NORFLOX 200 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

NORFLOX 200 TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to limited information on its safety and potential risks to the fetus or infant. It is crucial to consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Can NORFLOX 200 TABLET be taken with other medications?

NORFLOX 200 TABLET can interact with several medications. It should not be taken within two hours of multivitamins or mineral supplements containing iron or zinc, antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, sucralfate, or didanosine, as these can reduce its absorption. It may also increase the levels of theophylline and warfarin, and increase the risk of tendon disorders when taken with corticosteroids, or CNS stimulation/seizures with NSAIDs. Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using NORFLOX 200 TABLET?

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can cause increased dizziness. It is considered unsafe to drive or operate machinery if you experience dizziness. Caution is advised for patients with kidney or liver diseases, heart rhythm disorders (QT prolongation), tendon problems, myasthenia gravis, diabetes, and central nervous system disorders such as epilepsy. It should also not be taken with dairy products.

What happens if a dose of NORFLOX 200 TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should NORFLOX 200 TABLET be stored?

NORFLOX 200 TABLET should be stored at room temperature, typically below 30°C. Keep it in a closed container, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Ensure it is kept out of the reach of children.