Grepafloxacin (Raxar) Antibiotic Drug: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Grepafloxacin
(Raxar, United States and Canada)

Use:

Grepafloxacin or Raxar is a quinolone antibiotic used to treat pneumonia, bronchitis, uncomplicated gonorrhea, and Chlamydia infections.

How It Works:

Grepafloxacin or Raxar interferes with bacterial DNA, and thus bacterial ability to reproduce. It is active against gram positive bacteria including penicillin resistant Strep pneumoniae.

Side Effects:

Grepafloxacin or Raxar is generally well tolerated, however skin rashes, nausea, and diarrhea have been reported. It has an unpleasant taste and can cause sun sensitivity.

Cautions for People:

Grepafloxacin or Raxar is a quinolone antibiotic and these antibiotics seem to be involved in joint problems, specifically tendinitis, thus people at increased risk for this type of problem should be closely monitored.
Because Grepafloxacin or Raxar can affect the heart beat - specifically prolonging the QT interval - it can increase the risk for heart beat irregularities.
Pregnant women and lactating mothers should use Grepafloxacin or Raxar with care.

Drug Interactions:

Given with theophylline, Grepafloxacin or Raxar can increase theophylline blood levels. It can also increase the effects of the anticoagulant warfarin. In combination with other drugs that can affect also the heart's QT interval, it has the potential of increasing the risk of heart beat irregularities, for example quinidine, disopyramide, amiodarone, erythromycin, terfenadine, astemizole, cisapride.
Antacids or highly buffered drugs can reduce Grepafloxacin or Raxar's absorption. In fact taking Grepafloxacin or Raxar with an acidic beverage such as a cola drink may increase its absorption.

Further Reading:

Drugs 1997;53:817
Medical Letter 1998;40(1019):17

Added to Virtual Drugstore May 1999.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.