WARNING

Taking Factive (gemifloxacin) carries certain risks, like any medication. Some of the potential risks associated with Factive include:

• Side Effects: Common side effects of Factive may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and rash. Serious side effects such as tendon rupture, liver problems, and central nervous system effects are possible but less common.
• Tendon Disorders: Factive, like other fluoroquinolone antibiotics, may increase the risk of tendonitis or tendon rupture, particularly in older adults and those with a history of tendon disorders.
• Liver Problems: In rare cases, Factive may cause liver problems, including elevated liver enzymes and hepatitis.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Some individuals may experience central nervous system effects such as dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, and seizures while taking Factive, although these are rare.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to Factive are possible, although they are uncommon. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
• Photosensitivity: Factive may increase sensitivity to sunlight and UV light, leading to sunburn or skin rash in some individuals.
• Drug Interactions: Factive may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Antibiotic Resistance: Misuse or overuse of Factive can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making infections harder to treat in the future.

It’s essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits of taking Factive with your healthcare provider. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, and report any unusual or severe side effects promptly. If you have concerns or questions about the risks associated with Factive, discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Factive is a brand name for the antibiotic gemifloxacin, which is used to treat certain bacterial infections. It is typically prescribed for the treatment of acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis and community-acquired pneumonia caused by susceptible bacteria.

Gemifloxacin works by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of bacteria, thereby helping the body’s immune system to fight off the infection.

How should this medicine be used?

Factive (gemifloxacin) should be used exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Here are general guidelines for the usage of Factive:

• Dosage: Take Factive exactly as directed by your doctor. The dosage prescribed will depend on the specific condition being treated, the severity of the infection, and your medical history.
• Administration: Factive is usually taken orally, with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
• Timing: Take Factive at evenly spaced intervals to maintain a constant level of the medication in your body. It’s important to take the medication at the same time(s) each day.
• Duration: Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better before finishing the medication. Stopping the medication early can lead to the recurrence of the infection or the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
• Avoidance of certain substances: Avoid consuming dairy products, calcium-fortified juices, antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, and other products containing multivalent cations (such as iron or zinc supplements) within 3 hours before or 2 hours after taking Factive. These substances can interfere with the absorption of gemifloxacin.
• Follow-up: Follow up with your doctor as scheduled to monitor your response to the medication and to address any concerns or side effects.
• Do not share: Do not share Factive with others, even if they have similar symptoms. The medication may not be appropriate for their condition, and sharing prescription medications is illegal and can be dangerous.

It’s important to read the medication guide provided with Factive and to follow any additional instructions given by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Factive, be sure to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Factive (gemifloxacin) is primarily prescribed for the treatment of certain bacterial infections, such as acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis and community-acquired pneumonia. However, it may also be used off-label for other conditions at the discretion of a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Some special precautions to follow while using Factive include:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to gemifloxacin or other fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Additionally, disclose any other allergies you may have, as Factive may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other problems.
• Medical History: Provide your doctor with your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of certain conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, myasthenia gravis, or seizures. These conditions may affect how your body responds to Factive.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Factive during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, and your doctor will weigh the potential risks and benefits before prescribing this medication.
• Tendon Rupture: Fluoroquinolone antibiotics like Factive have been associated with an increased risk of tendon rupture, particularly in older adults, those taking corticosteroid medications, and those with kidney, heart, or lung transplants. If you experience tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation, stop taking Factive and contact your doctor immediately.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Factive may cause central nervous system (CNS) effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, or hallucinations. Exercise caution when driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require mental alertness until you know how Factive affects you.
• Photosensitivity: Factive may increase your sensitivity to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) light. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, tanning beds, and UV lamps while taking Factive, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Factive, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Antibiotic Resistance: Use Factive only as prescribed by your doctor and complete the full course of treatment, even if you start to feel better before finishing the medication. Skipping doses or stopping treatment early can contribute to antibiotic resistance.

It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions and to read the medication guide provided with Factive for additional information and precautions. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Avoid Certain Substances: Avoid consuming dairy products, calcium-fortified juices, antacids containing aluminum or magnesium, and products containing multivalent cations (such as iron or zinc supplements) within 3 hours before or 2 hours after taking Factive, as they may interfere with its absorption.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Factive, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Double Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Taking more than the prescribed amount can increase the risk of side effects and complications.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Factive (gemifloxacin) may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Factive include:

• Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea and vomiting while taking Factive. Taking the medication with food or a full glass of water may help alleviate these symptoms.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common side effect of many antibiotics, including Factive. It’s essential to stay hydrated if diarrhea occurs.
• Headache: Headaches may occur in some people as a side effect of Factive. If headaches are severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider.
• Dizziness: Factive may cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some individuals. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience these symptoms.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or insomnia may occur as a side effect of Factive in some individuals.
• Rash: Some people may develop a rash while taking Factive. If you experience a rash or any signs of an allergic reaction (such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing), seek medical attention immediately.
• Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain or discomfort may occur as a side effect of Factive. If severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider.
• Tendon disorders: Factive, like other fluoroquinolone antibiotics, may increase the risk of tendonitis or tendon rupture, particularly in older adults and those with a history of tendon disorders.
• Central nervous system effects: Factive may cause central nervous system effects such as dizziness, confusion, hallucinations, and seizures in rare cases.
• Liver problems: In rare cases, Factive may cause liver problems, including elevated liver enzymes and hepatitis.

It’s essential to report any side effects or adverse reactions to your healthcare provider promptly. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, if you have any concerns about the side effects of Factive, discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Factive:

• Storage: Store Factive tablets at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep the medication in its original container and out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired Factive tablets properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidelines on how to dispose of medications safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of emergency/overdose: If you suspect an overdose of Factive or experience severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, seizures, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center right away.

What other information should I know?

• Effectiveness: Take Factive exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, and complete the full course of treatment even if you start to feel better before finishing the medication. Skipping doses or stopping treatment early can lead to antibiotic resistance and treatment failure.
• Antibiotic Resistance: Avoid using Factive for conditions it is not prescribed for or sharing it with others. Misuse of antibiotics can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making infections harder to treat in the future.
• Follow-up: Follow up with your healthcare provider as scheduled to monitor your response to the medication and to address any concerns or questions you may have.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as Factive may interact with other medications.
• Medical Alert: Carry an identification card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating that you are taking Factive, especially if you have any medical conditions or allergies that may require emergency treatment.
• Missed Doses: If you miss a dose of Factive, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double dose to make up for a missed dose.
• Consultation: If you have any questions or concerns about Factive, its usage, or side effects, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance and clarification.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the safe and effective use of Factive.