ADVAQUIN 500mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is ADVAQUIN 500mg

ADVAQUIN 500mg is a film-coated tablet containing the active ingredient levofloxacin hemihydrate, a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections by inhibiting bacterial growth and multiplication. This medication is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, making it versatile for treating infections in different body systems.

• Active Ingredient: Levofloxacin (as hemihydrate) 500 mg
• Form: Film-coated tablet
• Packaging: 5 tablets per blister
• Indications: Treatment of respiratory tract infections (such as pneumonia and bronchitis), urinary tract infections, skin infections, sinusitis, and some types of prostatitis.
• Antibacterial Spectrum: Effective against a wide range of aerobic Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including resistant strains.
• Prescription Status: Available by prescription only due to potential for serious side effects and need for appropriate use.

How to use ADVAQUIN 500mg

For optimal therapeutic effect and to reduce the risk of resistance or side effects, proper use of ADVAQUIN 500mg is crucial:

• Dosage: Take as prescribed by your healthcare professional. Typically, one 500mg tablet once daily for most infections.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
• Timing: Can be taken with or without food; however, avoid taking it with dairy products or calcium-fortified juices alone as they may interfere with absorption.
• Duration: Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve early, to prevent bacterial resistance.
• Avoid: Do not take antacids, sucralfate, or supplements containing iron or zinc within 2 hours before or after dosing as they can reduce drug absorption.
• Hydration: Maintain adequate hydration during treatment to prevent potential kidney complications.
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose.

Mode of Action ADVAQUIN 500mg

Levofloxacin, the active component in ADVAQUIN, is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that works by targeting bacterial DNA replication:

• Inhibition of DNA Gyrase: Levofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II), an essential enzyme that controls the supercoiling of bacterial DNA necessary for replication and transcription.
• Inhibition of Topoisomerase IV: It also inhibits topoisomerase IV, which separates interlinked daughter DNA following replication.
• Bactericidal Effect: By blocking these enzymes, levofloxacin causes DNA damage and prevents bacterial replication, leading to bacterial cell death.
• Selective Action: Levofloxacin selectively targets bacterial enzymes and has minimal effect on human topoisomerases, contributing to its antibacterial activity with limited toxicity to human cells.

ADVAQUIN 500mg Interactions ADVAQUIN 500mg

Levofloxacin has several important drug interactions to consider:

• Antacids and Mineral Supplements: Products containing aluminum, magnesium, calcium, iron, or zinc can bind levofloxacin in the gut and significantly reduce its absorption.
• Warfarin and Other Anticoagulants: Levofloxacin may enhance the effect of warfarin, increasing bleeding risk; close monitoring of INR is recommended.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Co-administration may increase the risk of central nervous system stimulation and seizures.
• Drugs that Prolong QT Interval: Combining with medications like amiodarone or certain antipsychotics may increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
• Diabetes Medications: Levofloxacin can cause fluctuations in blood glucose levels; monitor closely if diabetic.
• Corticosteroids: Increased risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture with concomitant use.

Dosage of ADVAQUIN 500mg

The dosage of ADVAQUIN depends on the type and severity of the infection, as well as patient-specific factors such as kidney function:

• Adults: Standard dose is 500 mg once daily.
• Duration: Usually ranges from 5 to 14 days depending on infection type; severe infections may require longer courses.
• Renal Impairment: Dose adjustments needed in patients with reduced kidney function.
• Specific Infections: For complicated urinary tract infections or prostatitis, treatment may last up to 28 days.
• Pediatric Use: Generally not recommended in children except for specific serious infections under specialist supervision.

Possible side effects of ADVAQUIN 500mg

While ADVAQUIN is effective, it can cause side effects. Most are mild and reversible, but some may be serious:

• Common Side Effects: Nausea, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and insomnia.
• Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, vomiting, dyspepsia.
• Central Nervous System: Rare seizures, tremors, confusion, or hallucinations, especially in elderly or those with CNS disorders.
• Tendinopathy: Risk of tendonitis and tendon rupture, particularly Achilles tendon; risk increased with corticosteroids, elderly, or transplant patients.
• Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, or anaphylaxis in rare cases.
• Photosensitivity: Increased sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn-like reactions.
• Cardiac: Rare QT prolongation and arrhythmias.
• Rare but Severe: Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, liver dysfunction.

ADVAQUIN 500mg Contraindications ADVAQUIN 500mg

ADVAQUIN should not be used in certain situations to avoid serious adverse effects:

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to levofloxacin, other fluoroquinolones, or any component of the formulation.
• Children and Adolescents: Generally contraindicated due to risk of musculoskeletal disorders unless benefit outweighs risk.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use only if clearly necessary and under medical supervision.
• History of Tendon Disorders: Patients with previous tendonitis or tendon rupture related to fluoroquinolones should avoid.
• Patients with QT Prolongation: Those with known long QT syndrome or on QT-prolonging drugs.

Storage of ADVAQUIN 500mg

To maintain the efficacy and safety of ADVAQUIN, proper storage is essential:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature, preferably between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place, protected from moisture.
• Light: Store in original packaging to protect from light exposure.
• Child Safety: Keep out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Expiry: Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired medication responsibly according to local regulations.