Sitaquin

Indications

Sitafloxacin is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections (including pneumonia and bronchitis), urinary tract infections, ear, nose and throat infections, and some other infections caused by bacteria that are sensitive to it. It does not work against viral infections such as colds or flu.

How It Works

Sitafloxacin belongs to the fluoroquinolone group. It blocks two bacterial enzymes, DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, which bacteria need to copy and repair their genetic material. Without them the bacteria cannot multiply and die.

Dosage and Administration

The usual adult dose is 50 mg twice daily or 100 mg once daily by mouth, with or without food, for the number of days the doctor prescribes. A higher dose may be prescribed for more serious infections. The dose is lowered in people with kidney problems. Complete the full course even if you feel better, and take it at least 2 hours before or after antacids, iron, zinc or calcium supplements.

Interactions

Antacids containing aluminium or magnesium, and iron, zinc or calcium products, reduce its absorption. Taking it with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen may increase the risk of fits. It may raise the effect of Warfarin and change blood sugar control with Insulin or Glimepiride. Use with Theophylline, Corticosteroids, or medicines that prolong the QT interval (such as Amiodarone, Sotalol or some antipsychotics) needs caution.

Contraindications

Do not take if you are allergic to Sitafloxacin or any other quinolone antibiotic, during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or in children and adolescents unless a specialist decides otherwise.

Side Effects

Common effects include diarrhoea, loose stools, nausea, stomach discomfort, headache and dizziness. Changes in liver tests and in blood sugar may occur. Fluoroquinolones can rarely cause tendon pain or rupture, nerve damage (tingling, burning or numbness), mood changes and sensitivity to sunlight.

Get urgent medical help if you have sudden tendon pain or swelling, a fit, severe or bloody diarrhoea, fast or irregular heartbeat or fainting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, very low blood sugar (sweating, shaking, confusion), or swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or a blistering rash.

Pregnancy and Lactation

It should not be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding, because quinolones may affect developing joints and cartilage. The doctor will choose a different antibiotic.

Precautions and Warnings

Use with care in older people, those taking corticosteroids, and people with kidney disease, epilepsy, myasthenia gravis, heart rhythm problems, low potassium or diabetes. Stop and see a doctor at the first sign of tendon pain or nerve symptoms. Avoid strong sunlight. Do not drive if you feel dizzy.

Overdose

Overdose may cause nausea, dizziness, confusion, fits or heart rhythm changes. Seek medical help straight away; treatment is supportive with heart monitoring.

Therapeutic Class

Fluoroquinolone antibiotic

Storage

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