MAXAQUIN

Drug Name: MAXAQUIN

MAXAQUIN DESCRIPTION:
LOMEFLOXACIN - ORAL (low-meh-FLOX-uh-sin)

COMMON MAXAQUIN BRAND NAME(S):
Maxaquin

MAXAQUIN SIDE EFFECTS:
MAXAQUIN may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, change in taste, loose stools, nausea, headache or dizziness during the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. Report new pain or tenderness (tendonitis) in arms or legs promptly. If you develop diarrhea while taking MAXAQUIN, notify your doctor. Do not take any nonprescription medication to treat the diarrhea without first consulting your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: tremors, chest pain, restlessness, nightmares, vision changes, mental/mood changes, ringing in the ears, seizures. MAXAQUIN may infrequently cause drowsiness. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, fever, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE MAXAQUIN:
MAXAQUIN: Take each dose with a full glass of water. MAXAQUIN may be taken with or without food. Drink plenty of fluids while taking MAXAQUIN. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Continue to take MAXAQUIN until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection. If you take any of the following items, take them 4 hours before or 2 hours after taking MAXAQUIN: zinc, iron, sucralfate, didanosine, dairy products or antacids that contain magnesium, calcium or aluminum.

MAXAQUIN USES:
MAXAQUIN is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections.

MAXAQUIN PRECAUTIONS:
Before taking MAXAQUIN, tell your doctor your medical history especially of: epilepsy, kidney disease, tendon problems, nervous system disorders, liver disease, blood vessel problems, any drug allergies. Use caution driving or performing tasks requiring alertness if MAXAQUIN makes you dizzy or lightheaded. Limit alcohol intake. Because MAXAQUIN may make you more sensitive to the sun, avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen when outdoors. Taking your dose of medication in the evening instead of morning may help to reduce this sensitivity reaction. MAXAQUIN should be used with caution in children less than 18 years of age because it may cause joint or bone problems. MAXAQUIN should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if MAXAQUIN is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

MAXAQUIN DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Before taking MAXAQUIN, tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking, especially: other antibiotics, warfarin, cyclosporine, sucralfate, quinapril, iron, zinc, didanosine, dairy products, antacids (that contain calcium, magnesium or aluminum). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

MAXAQUIN OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

MAXAQUIN NOTES:
MAXAQUIN has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be needed in those cases.

MISSED MAXAQUIN DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the scheduled dose only, then resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

MAXAQUIN STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.