Sparfloxacin

Generic Details

Generic Name

Sparfloxacin

Other Names

  • Zagam

Drug Class

  • Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic

Chemical Formula

C19H22FN3O4

Molecular Weight

361.4 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes

Indications

  • Treatment of bacterial infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, and skin infections

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet

Typical Dosage

  • 200-400mg once daily, depending on the severity of the infection

Pediatric Dosage

  • Safety and efficacy not established in children under 18 years old

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dose adjustment may be needed based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, photosensitivity

Contraindications

  • History of tendon disorders, myasthenia gravis, hypersensitivity to sparfloxacin or other quinolones

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out

Lactation Safety

  • Avoid breastfeeding while taking sparfloxacin

Drug Interactions

  • Avoid concurrent use with Class IA and III antiarrhythmics, tizanidine, and certain antacids, vitamins, and minerals

Overdose Symptoms

  • Seizures, hallucinations, arrhythmias

Antidote for Overdose

  • There is no specific antidote, symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature (20-25°C), protect from light and moisture

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed orally, with or without food
  • Distribution: Distributes well into tissues and body fluids
  • Metabolism: Undergoes hepatic metabolism to inactive metabolites
  • Excretion: Excreted mainly through urine

Precautions

  • Avoid in patients with known QT prolongation or factors that increase the risk of QT prolongation

Warnings

  • May cause serious and disabling adverse reactions including tendinitis and tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, CNS effects

Others

  • Sparfloxacin is not recommended as a first-line treatment due to its potential for serious side effects