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Other drug names: | A-Am An-Az B C-Ch Ci-Cz D-Dh Di-Dz E F G H I-J K-L M-Mh Mi-Mz N-Nh Ni-Nz O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q-R S-Sn So-Sz T-To Tp-Tz U-V W-Z 0-9 |
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Gatifloxacin is in a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics. It eliminates bacteria that cause many infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis; sinus, respiratory tract, and urinary tract infections; and sexually transmitted diseases. Antibiotics will not work against colds, flu, or other viral infections.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Gatifloxacin comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once daily for up to 14 days with or without food. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take gatifloxacin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Continue to take gatifloxacin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking gatifloxacin without talking with your doctor.
Gatifloxacin is also used occasionally to eliminate bacteria that cause infections in the skin and prostate. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.
Before administering gatifloxacin,
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the 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.
Although side effects from gatifloxacin are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store the tablets at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Keep away from light. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to gatifloxacin.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the gatifloxacin, call your doctor.
Last Revised - 01/01/2003
The MedMaster Patient Drug Information database provides information copyrighted by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., Bethesda, Maryland Copyright© 2004. All Rights Reserved.
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Page last updated: 04 October 2004 |