Nalidixic Acid

Introduction To Nalidixic Acid

Nalidixic Acid is an antibiotic, used in the treatment of bacterial infections. It is also used in treating infections of the urinary tract, nose, throat, skin and soft tissues and lungs (pneumonia). It cures the infection by stopping the further growth of the causative microorganisms.

Nalidixic Acid should be used in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. It may be taken with or without food, preferably at a fixed time. Avoid skipping any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Simply take the next dose as planned.

You may experience nausea as a side effect of this medicine. This is usually temporary and resolves on its own, but please consult your doctor if it bothers you or persists for a longer duration. Diarrhea may also occur as a side effect but should stop when your course is complete. Inform your doctor if it does not stop or if you find blood in your stools.

You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Rarely, some people may have a severe allergic reaction which needs urgent medical attention. Signs of this include rash, swelling of the lips, tongue or face, shortness of breath or breathing problems. Special care should be taken in people with kidney problems while taking this medicine.

Uses of Nalidixic Acid

  • Bacterial infections

Benefits of Nalidixic Acid

Bacterial infections
Nalidixic Acid is an antibiotic medicine which can be used to treat many different infections caused by bacteria. It stops the growth of the bacteria causing the infection and clears the infection. Take it for as long as prescribed by the doctor and avoid skipping doses. This will make sure that all bacteria are killed and they do not become resistant.

Side effects of Nalidixic Acid

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Dix

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea

How to use Nalidixic Acid

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check the label for directions before use. Measure it with a measuring cup and take it by mouth. Shake well before use. Nalidixic Acid is to be taken empty stomach.

How Nalidixic Acid works

Nalidixic Acid is an antibiotic. It works by stopping the action of a bacterial enzyme called DNA-gyrase. This prevents the bacterial cells from dividing and repairing, thereby killing them.

Quick tips

  • Your doctor has prescribed Nalidixic Acid to cure your infection and improve symptoms.

  • Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better.

  • Discontinue Nalidixic Acid and inform your doctor immediately if you get a rash, itchy skin, swelling of face and mouth, or have difficulty in breathing.

  • Diarrhea may occur as a side effect but should stop when your course is complete. Inform your doctor if it doesn't stop or if you find blood in your stools.

  • Notify your doctor if you feel pain in your tendons, numbness, or tingling sensations.

  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeeding.

Safety Advice

sdsPregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Can I take Nalidixic Acid if I’m pregnant?

Nalidixic Acid may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.

sdsBreastfeedingSAFE IF PRESCRIBED

Can I take Nalidixic Acid if I’m breastfeeding?

Nalidixic Acid is safe to use during breastfeeding. Human studies suggest that the drug does not pass into the breastmilk in a significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.

sdsAlcoholUNSAFE

Is drinking alcohol while taking Nalidixic Acid safe?

Nalidixic Acid may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.

sdsDrivingSAFE

Can I drive after taking Nalidixic Acid?

Nalidixic Acid does not usually affect your ability to drive.

sdsKidneyCAUTION

Can I take Nalidixic Acid if I have/had kidney diseases?

Nalidixic Acid should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Nalidixic Acid may be needed. Please consult your doctor. Regular monitoring of kidney function tests is advised if this medicine is to be taken for a long time.

sdsLiverCAUTION

Can I take Nalidixic Acid if I have/had liver diseases?

Nalidixic Acid should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Nalidixic Acid may be needed. Please consult your doctor. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is advised if this medicine is to be taken for a long time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can the use of Nalidixic Acid cause diarrhea?

Yes, the use of Nalidixic Acid can cause diarrhea. It is an antibiotic which kills the harmful bacteria. However, it also affects the helpful bacteria in your stomach or intestine and causes diarrhea. If you are experiencing severe diarrhea, talk to your doctor about it.

Q. Can I stop taking Nalidixic Acid when I feel better?

No, do not stop taking Nalidixic Acid and complete the full course of treatment even if you feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cured.

References

Written By:

Dr Advikka Ridhy

Dr Advikka Ridhy

MBBS

RMO, Aster MIMS

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