>Fluoroquinolones (systemic)<

Commonly used medicines: Ciprofloxacin, Enoxacin, Grepafloxacin, Levofoxacin, Lomefoxacin, Norfloxacin, Ofloxacin, Sparfloxacin.

Commonly used brand names: (In the U.S.): Cipro, Cipro I.V., Floxin, Floxin I.V., Levaquin, Maxaquin, Noroxin, Penetrex, Raxar, Zagam.
(In Canada): Cipro, Cipro I.V., Floxin, Noroxin, Raxar.

Description:  Fluoroquinolones are used to treat bacterial infections in many different parts of the body. They work by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. However, these medicines will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections. 
 
Precautions:  If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

If you are taking aluminum or magnesium-containing antacids, or sucralfate, do not take them at the same time that you take this medicine. It is best to take these medicines at least 6 hours before or 2 hours after taking ciprofloxacin; at least 8 hours before or 2 hours after taking enoxacin; at least 4 hours before or 4 hours after taking grepafloxacin or sparfloxacin; at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking levofloxacin, norfloxacin, or ofloxacin; and at least 4 hours before or 2 hours after taking lomefloxacin. These medicines may keep fluoroquinolones from working properly.

Some people taking fluoroquinolones, especially sparfloxacin may become more sensitive to sunlight, even for brief periods of time, may cause severe sunburn, or skin rash, redness, itching, or discoloration. When you begin taking this medicine; stay out of direct sunlight; wear protective clothing; apply a sunblock product; do not use a sunlamp or tanning booth.

Fluoroquinolones may also cause some people to become dizzy, lightheaded, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machines, or do anything else that can be dangerous if you are dizzy or not alert.

Fluoroquinolones may rarely cause inflammation or even tearing of a tendon.

For patients with diabetes taking insulin or diabetes medicine by mouth; Levofloxacin may cause hypoglycemia in some patients.