Sparflox
Generic Name
Sparfloxacin 200 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Various Manufacturers
Country
Varies
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| sparflox 200 mg tablet | ৳ 16.05 | ৳ 160.50 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Sparfloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, and skin infections.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Oral: 400 mg on day 1, then 200 mg once daily for 7-10 days, depending on the infection.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be required in elderly patients, particularly those with renal impairment. Monitor renal function.
Renal_impairment
For creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min, dosage adjustment is necessary (e.g., initial 400 mg, then 200 mg every 48 hours).
How to Take
Take orally with or without food. It is recommended to take it with plenty of water. Avoid taking with antacids or dairy products.
Mechanism of Action
Sparfloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, essential enzymes for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination, leading to bacterial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Relatively rapid, antibacterial effects within hours of first dose.
Excretion
Excreted renally (about 50% as unchanged drug and metabolites) and fecally (about 50%).
Half life
Approximately 16-20 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, with bioavailability of approximately 90%. Peak plasma concentrations occur 3-6 hours after administration.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic metabolism, though not extensively via CYP450 enzymes. Glucuronidation is the main metabolic pathway.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to sparfloxacin or other fluoroquinolones.
- Patients with a history of QT prolongation or uncorrected hypokalemia.
- Concomitant use with other drugs known to prolong the QT interval.
- Children and adolescents (due to risk of cartilage damage).
- Pregnancy and lactation.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin. Monitor INR/PT closely.
Sucralfate
Reduces sparfloxacin absorption. Administer sparfloxacin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after sucralfate.
Theophylline
May increase theophylline plasma concentrations and risk of toxicity. Monitor theophylline levels.
Iron and Zinc salts
Reduce sparfloxacin absorption. Administer sparfloxacin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after these agents.
Antacids (aluminum, magnesium, calcium)
Reduce sparfloxacin absorption. Administer sparfloxacin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after these agents.
QT prolonging drugs (e.g., Class IA and III antiarrhythmics, cisapride, erythromycin, antipsychotics)
Increased risk of QT prolongation and Torsades de Pointes.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, initiate symptomatic and supportive treatment. Monitor ECG closely for QT prolongation and ensure adequate hydration. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing sparfloxacin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Sparfloxacin is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to potential risks to the fetus/infant, including cartilage damage.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to sparfloxacin or other fluoroquinolones.
- Patients with a history of QT prolongation or uncorrected hypokalemia.
- Concomitant use with other drugs known to prolong the QT interval.
- Children and adolescents (due to risk of cartilage damage).
- Pregnancy and lactation.
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin. Monitor INR/PT closely.
Sucralfate
Reduces sparfloxacin absorption. Administer sparfloxacin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after sucralfate.
Theophylline
May increase theophylline plasma concentrations and risk of toxicity. Monitor theophylline levels.
Iron and Zinc salts
Reduce sparfloxacin absorption. Administer sparfloxacin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after these agents.
Antacids (aluminum, magnesium, calcium)
Reduce sparfloxacin absorption. Administer sparfloxacin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after these agents.
QT prolonging drugs (e.g., Class IA and III antiarrhythmics, cisapride, erythromycin, antipsychotics)
Increased risk of QT prolongation and Torsades de Pointes.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, initiate symptomatic and supportive treatment. Monitor ECG closely for QT prolongation and ensure adequate hydration. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing sparfloxacin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Sparfloxacin is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to potential risks to the fetus/infant, including cartilage damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Usually 24 to 36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved in many countries
Patent Status
Off-patent
Clinical Trials
Sparfloxacin has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy in respiratory and other bacterial infections, but its use has been limited by concerns over QT prolongation and photosensitivity.
Lab Monitoring
- ECG monitoring (for QT interval) prior to and during treatment, especially in patients at risk for QT prolongation.
- Electrolyte levels (potassium, magnesium) if clinically indicated.
- Renal and hepatic function tests if prolonged therapy or underlying conditions exist.
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients thoroughly about the risk of photosensitivity and the need for sun protection.
- Monitor cardiac status (ECG) in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or those on concomitant QT-prolonging drugs.
- Advise immediate cessation and medical consultation if tendon pain, swelling, or neurological symptoms occur.
Patient Guidelines
- Avoid direct and indirect sun exposure and use protective clothing and sunscreen due to severe photosensitivity.
- Report any joint or tendon pain, swelling, or weakness immediately to your doctor.
- Do not take with antacids, iron supplements, or dairy products. Separate doses by at least 2-4 hours.
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
- Report any new or worsening nerve-related symptoms (pain, burning, tingling, numbness) immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Sparfloxacin may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or visual disturbances. Patients should exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medicine affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment as it may exacerbate some side effects.
- Limit strenuous exercise if experiencing tendon-related symptoms.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.