Spar
Generic Name
Sparfloxacin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| spar 200 mg tablet | ৳ 20.00 | ৳ 200.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Sparfloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA synthesis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
200 mg once daily for 7-14 days depending on infection. Initial loading dose of 400 mg on day 1 may be considered for severe infections.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment generally needed, but monitor renal function.
Renal_impairment
Dose reduction may be necessary for severe renal impairment (CrCl < 50 mL/min). e.g., 200 mg initially, then 100 mg every 24 hours.
How to Take
Sparfloxacin tablets should be taken orally with water, with or without food. Avoid antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, and iron/zinc supplements for several hours before or after taking Sparfloxacin.
Mechanism of Action
Sparfloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. This leads to inhibition of bacterial growth and cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Peak plasma concentrations reached within 3-6 hours.
Excretion
Primarily excreted via kidneys (around 50% as unchanged drug) and faeces.
Half life
Approximately 16-20 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, bioavailability around 92%.
Metabolism
Limited hepatic metabolism, mainly via glucuronidation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to sparfloxacin or other fluoroquinolones
- History of QT prolongation or uncorrected hypokalemia
- Patients with risk factors for torsades de pointes
- Children and adolescents (under 18 years)
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of CNS stimulation and convulsions.
Warfarin
Potentiation of anticoagulant effect.
Antacids (Mg/Al), Sucralfate, Iron/Zinc Supplements
Reduced absorption of sparfloxacin. Separate administration by several hours.
QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., Class IA and III antiarrhythmics, tricyclic antidepressants, macrolides)
Increased risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, confusion, seizures, or QT prolongation. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered soon after ingestion. Hemodialysis is not effective.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Not recommended during pregnancy due to potential effects on fetal cartilage development. Avoid during lactation as it is excreted in breast milk and may cause adverse effects in nursing infants.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to sparfloxacin or other fluoroquinolones
- History of QT prolongation or uncorrected hypokalemia
- Patients with risk factors for torsades de pointes
- Children and adolescents (under 18 years)
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Increased risk of CNS stimulation and convulsions.
Warfarin
Potentiation of anticoagulant effect.
Antacids (Mg/Al), Sucralfate, Iron/Zinc Supplements
Reduced absorption of sparfloxacin. Separate administration by several hours.
QT-prolonging drugs (e.g., Class IA and III antiarrhythmics, tricyclic antidepressants, macrolides)
Increased risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, confusion, seizures, or QT prolongation. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered soon after ingestion. Hemodialysis is not effective.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Not recommended during pregnancy due to potential effects on fetal cartilage development. Avoid during lactation as it is excreted in breast milk and may cause adverse effects in nursing infants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Expired
Clinical Trials
Sparfloxacin underwent extensive clinical trials for its various indications before approval, demonstrating efficacy and safety, although later post-marketing surveillance identified concerns regarding QT prolongation and photosensitivity.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function tests (especially in elderly or renally impaired)
- Electrolyte levels (potassium, magnesium) for patients at risk of QT prolongation
- ECG monitoring (especially with risk factors for QT prolongation or concomitant QT-prolonging drugs)
Doctor Notes
- Careful patient selection is crucial due to the risk of QT prolongation and severe photosensitivity.
- Advise patients on strict sun protection measures.
- Monitor for signs of tendinopathy or neuropathy, especially in elderly or patients on corticosteroids.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Avoid direct sunlight and use protective clothing/sunscreen due to photosensitivity.
- Report any tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation immediately.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Sparfloxacin may cause dizziness or visual disturbances. Patients should assess their reaction to the drug before driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity that may strain tendons, especially during treatment.
- Wear sunglasses and protective clothing when outdoors.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.