Nalidixic Acid Description

Generic Name : NALIDIXIC ACID

Pronunciation : (nal i dix' ik)

Trade Name(s) : Diarlop susp.,Enterodix, Dix, Gramonneg, Nadix acutab, Negadix

Why it is prescribed: Nalidixic acid eliminates bacteria that cause urinary tract infections.

When it is to be taken: Nalidixic acid is usually taken four times a day for 7 to 14 days. Follow the instructions on your prescription label, and ask your doctor to explain any part that you do not understand. To be effective, doses should be taken at evenly spaced intervals. For example, if you are to take this drug four times a day, take a dose every six hours. However, if you cannot take the medication around the clock, take it at evenly spaced intervals between the time you wake up and the time you to bed.

How it should be taken: Nalidixic acid comes in the form of tablets and oral liquid. Take it with a full glass of water on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals. Shake the liquid bottle well before each use to mix the medication evenly. You may obtain a specially marked measuring spoon to be sure of an accurate dose.

Special Instruction :
1. Drink at least eight full glasses of water or other liquids every day. Take all of the nalidixic acid prescribed, even if you begin to feel better. Symptoms of the infection may disappear before the infection is cured.
2. If you will be outside for long periods, wear clothing that protects your skin from direct sunlight. Use sunscreen agents for uncovered skin areas.
3. You may have urine tests done to determine when the infection is cured. Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
4. Nalidixic acid can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
5. Take the missed dosed as soon as you remember it. Take any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. It is important to take all doses of this medication on time, especially during the first few days of treatment. If you fail to take the doses as scheduled, bacteria can build up defenses against the effects of nalidixic acid.

Side Effects :
1. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea. Take this drug with meals or a snack. If you still experience these effects, contact your doctor.
2. Muscle pain, confusion, depression, weakness, headache, dizziness, faintness, unusual sensations. Contact your doctor if these effects are severe or persist.
3. Skin rash and seizures are rare. Stop taking the medication and contact your doctor.

Other Precautions :
1. Before taking nalidixic acid, tell your doctor if you are less than three months pregnant, think that you may be pregnant, or have epilepsy or liver, lung, or kidney disease.
2. If you take anticoagulants such as warfarin, tell your doctor.
3. If your doctor tells you to stop taking nalidixic acid, throw away any unused medication. Nalidixic acid loses effectiveness over time and should not be saved to treat another infection.
4. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach for children.
2. Store it at room temperature.
3. Do not allow the liquid to freeze.