NALIDIXIC ACID

It has high bacteriostatic and bactericidal activity against infections caused by Gram-negative organisms.

Indications

Acute and chronic urinary infections produced by susceptible Gram-negative species: cystitis, pyelonephritis, prostatitis, postpartum pyelitis, urethritis and trigonitis. Intestinal infections, diarrhoea, and dysentery-especially when produced by Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli and Proteus. In chronic and resistant infections, initial therapy should be followed after several weeks by a second course of treatment. Urinary stasis, which can aggravate and prolong urinary infections, should be correc

Dosage

1 gm 6 hrly. Children: 55 mg/kg body wt daily in divided doses. All for at least 7 days. Not recommended for infants below 3 months.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity to nalidixic acid. Convulsive disorders, first trimester of pregnancy.

Special Precautions

Blood counts, renal and liver function tests should be performed periodically if treatment is continued for more than two weeks. Caution with Patients of hepatic and renal impairment, epilepsy or cerebral arteriosclerosis. Avoid undue exposure to direct sunlight. Paediatrics: Reduced dose necessary. Not recommended below 3 months. Pregnancy: Contraindicated. Lactation: Contraindicated. Elderly: No special problem.

Side Effects

Drowsiness, weakness, headache, dizziness. and vertigo.Decrease in visual activity and double vision, skin rashes, blood dyscrasias, convulsions, photosensitivity, intracranial hypertension.

Drug Interactions

Enhances effect of oral anticoagulants, antagonises nitrofurantion. Serious G.I.T. toxicity with melphalan. Food delays absorption. Probenecid prolongs half-life. Chlorpromazine and perphenazine potentiates antibacterial effect.