Noroxin (norfloxacin) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic specifically formulated to target and eliminate susceptible gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. This second-generation quinolone demonstrates particularly potent activity against pathogens commonly responsible for complicated urinary tract infections, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus species. Its bactericidal action occurs through inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase, effectively preventing DNA replication and transcription. Healthcare providers frequently prescribe Noroxin for patients requiring robust antimicrobial therapy when first-line treatments prove insufficient or inappropriate.

Features

• Contains 400mg norfloxacin as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available as film-coated tablets for oral administration
• Exhibits broad-spectrum activity against common uropathogens
• Demonstrates excellent tissue penetration in genitourinary system
• Stable at room temperature with standard storage conditions
• Manufactured under current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP)

Benefits

• Rapid bactericidal action against multidrug-resistant pathogens
• High urinary concentration ensures effective eradication of infection
• Convenient twice-daily dosing supports treatment adherence
• Reduced risk of bacterial resistance development when used appropriately
• Effective alternative for patients with penicillin allergies
• Comprehensive coverage against both gram-negative and gram-positive organisms

Common use

Noroxin is primarily indicated for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections caused by susceptible strains of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Proteus mirabilis, indole-positive Proteus species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Citrobacter freundii, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and group D streptococci. It is also employed in the management of uncomplicated urethral and cervical gonorrhea caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Additionally, Noroxin may be used for prostatitis caused by E. coli, though healthcare providers should consider alternative agents with better prostate tissue penetration for chronic cases.

Dosage and direction

The recommended adult dosage for complicated urinary tract infections is 400 mg orally twice daily for 10-21 days, depending on infection severity and clinical response. For uncomplicated gonorrhea, a single 800 mg dose is administered. Tablets should be taken one hour before or two hours after meals to optimize absorption. Patients must maintain adequate hydration during therapy to prevent crystal formation in urine. Dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with renal impairment: for creatinine clearance ≤30 mL/min/1.73m², the recommended dosage is 400 mg once daily. Treatment duration should not exceed recommended guidelines to minimize resistance development.

Precautions

Patients should be advised that Noroxin may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or visual disturbances that could impair physical or mental abilities. Tendon inflammation or rupture may occur during or after therapy, particularly in elderly patients, those receiving corticosteroid therapy, and solid organ transplant recipients. Noroxin may prolong the QT interval in some patients, necessitating caution in those with known QT prolongation, uncorrected hypokalemia, or concurrent use of other QT-prolonging medications. Photosensitivity reactions have been reported; patients should avoid excessive sunlight or artificial UV light and use protective measures. Blood glucose disturbances may occur, requiring monitoring in diabetic patients.

Contraindications

Noroxin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to norfloxacin, other quinolone antibiotics, or any component of the formulation. Concurrent administration with tizanidine is absolutely contraindicated due to potentially dangerous increases in tizanidine concentrations. The medication is contraindicated in patients with history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use. Use during pregnancy is contraindicated unless potential benefits justify potential risks to the fetus, as animal studies have shown arthropathy in immature animals. Noroxin is contraindicated in pediatric patients and adolescents under 18 years of age due to risk of arthropathy.

Possible side effect

The most frequently reported adverse reactions include nausea (3.8%), headache (3.2%), dizziness (2.1%), and fatigue (1.3%). Gastrointestinal disturbances such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting occur in approximately 1-2% of patients. Central nervous system effects may include insomnia, nervousness, and mood alterations. Dermatological reactions range from mild rash and pruritus to more severe photosensitivity reactions. Rare but serious adverse effects include tendon rupture (particularly Achilles tendon), peripheral neuropathy, QT prolongation, and hepatotoxicity. Pseudomembranous colitis has been reported with nearly all antibacterial agents, including Noroxin.

Drug interaction

Noroxin demonstrates significant interactions with multivalent cation-containing products; concomitant administration with antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, sucralfate, metal cations such as iron, or zinc-containing products substantially reduces absorption. Administration should be separated by at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after these products. Noroxin may increase concentrations of theophylline, caffeine, and warfarin, requiring monitoring and potential dosage adjustment. Concurrent use with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may increase the risk of CNS stimulation and seizures. Probenecid interferes with renal tubular secretion of norfloxacin, increasing systemic exposure. Noroxin may enhance effects of oral hypoglycemic agents and insulin.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, patients should take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should never double the dose to make up for a missed administration. Maintaining consistent antibiotic levels is crucial for therapeutic efficacy and resistance prevention. If multiple doses are missed or uncertainty exists about proper management, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance rather than attempting to adjust the regimen independently.

Overdose

In case of overdose, symptomatic and supportive care should be initiated immediately. Gastric lavage may be beneficial if performed soon after ingestion. Patients should be monitored for CNS stimulation, which may require symptomatic management with benzodiazepines. Renal function should be assessed, as the primary elimination route is renal excretion. Hemodialysis removes approximately 30% of circulating norfloxacin, though its clinical benefit in overdose remains uncertain. ECG monitoring is recommended to detect QT prolongation. Maintenance of adequate hydration is essential to prevent crystalluria. There is no specific antidote for norfloxacin overdose.

Storage

Noroxin tablets should be stored at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The medication must be kept in the original container with the lid tightly closed to protect from moisture and light. Tablets should not be stored in bathroom cabinets or other areas subject to high humidity. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use tablets that show signs of discoloration, cracking, or other physical deterioration. Proper disposal of unused medication is essential to prevent accidental ingestion or environmental contamination.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Noroxin is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The prescribing physician will determine appropriate dosage and duration based on individual patient factors, infection type, and local resistance patterns. Patients should not self-medicate or adjust dosage without medical consultation. Complete the full course of therapy even if symptoms improve to prevent recurrence and resistance development. Report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider promptly.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Noroxin achieves microbiological eradication rates of 88-92% in complicated urinary tract infections caused by susceptible organisms. In a multicenter trial involving 452 patients with complicated UTIs, norfloxacin 400mg twice daily for 10-14 days produced clinical cure rates of 89.3% at test-of-cure visit. Another study comparing norfloxacin with other fluoroquinolones showed comparable efficacy with favorable tolerability profile. Healthcare providers note its particular value in managing infections caused by multidrug-resistant gram-negative organisms. Some clinicians express concern about emerging resistance patterns and reserve Noroxin for specific clinical scenarios where benefits outweigh risks.