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Indications

Sparfloxacin is an antibiotic used for bacterial infections when the doctor judges it suitable, mainly:

• Community-acquired pneumonia.
• Flare-ups of chronic bronchitis caused by bacteria.
• Acute bacterial sinusitis.

It does not work against viral infections such as colds or flu. Because of its side effects, it is usually kept for cases where other antibiotics are not suitable.

How It Works

Sparfloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It blocks enzymes (DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV) that bacteria need to copy their genetic material, so the bacteria die.

Dosage and Administration

Adults: usually 400 mg on the first day, then 200 mg once a day, for a total of about 10 days, or as prescribed. People with kidney problems need a lower dose set by the doctor. Take with a full glass of water, with or without food. Finish the full course even if you feel better. Not for children or teenagers under 18.

Interactions

• Antacids, iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium and Sucralfate reduce absorption: take sparfloxacin at least 4 hours before them.
• Medicines that affect heart rhythm, such as Amiodarone, Sotalol, Erythromycin, some antipsychotics and some antidepressants: risk of a dangerous heart rhythm; avoid together.
• NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen: higher risk of fits.
• Corticosteroids such as Prednisolone: higher risk of tendon damage.
• Warfarin: its effect may increase.

Contraindications

• Allergy to sparfloxacin or any other quinolone antibiotic such as Ciprofloxacin or Levofloxacin.
• Long QT on the ECG, a family history of it, or low potassium or magnesium that is not corrected.
• Past tendon problems with a quinolone antibiotic.
• Children and teenagers under 18, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Side Effects

Common: skin reaction to sunlight (bad sunburn, redness, blistering), nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness and trouble sleeping.

Stop taking it and get urgent medical help for a fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, pain, swelling or a snapping feeling in a tendon (often the heel), severe watery or bloody diarrhoea, fits, numbness or burning in the hands or feet, sudden mood changes or confusion, a blistering skin rash, or swelling of the face, lips or throat.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Do not use in pregnancy, as it may harm the baby's developing joints. It passes into breast milk, so do not use while breastfeeding; the doctor will choose another antibiotic.

Precautions and Warnings

Avoid sunlight and sunlamps during treatment and for at least 5 days afterwards; cover the skin and stay in the shade. Tell the doctor if you have heart disease, epilepsy, myasthenia gravis, diabetes or kidney problems, or if you are over 60. Older people and those taking steroids have a higher risk of tendon damage. It may cause dizziness, so take care when driving.

Overdose

An overdose can cause a dangerous heart rhythm, fits and severe stomach upset. Go to hospital at once.

Therapeutic Class

Antibiotic (fluoroquinolone).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.