Norfloxacin
Norfloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibacterial.
Group
Fluoroquinolone antibacterial
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase, impairing replication and producing bactericidal activity.
Dose Rates
Dogs
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Susceptible bacterial infection | 22 mg/kg | PO | Every 12 h | Do not use in: Growing animals |
Cats
| Use / stage | Dose | Route | Schedule | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Susceptible bacterial infection | 22 mg/kg | PO | Every 12 h | Do not use in: Growing animals |
Indications
- Susceptible bacterial infections; newer veterinary fluoroquinolones usually offer advantages
Contraindications
- Growing animals: risk of articular-cartilage injury.
- Use caution in seizure-prone patients or renal failure.
Interactions
- Aluminum, iron, calcium, zinc and sucralfate can reduce absorption through chelation.
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal upset, CNS toxicity and juvenile arthropathy.
Preparations
| Preparation | Form | Strength | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Norfloxacin 400 mg | Tablet | 400 mg / tablet | PO |
| Norfloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.3% Sterile eye drops only; not an oral or injectable preparation. | Other | 3 mg / mL | TOPICAL |
Monitoring and Administration
Base treatment on susceptibility and clinical response. Avoid mixing with metal-containing solutions.
Sterile norfloxacin 0.3% eye drops are described for established susceptible gram-negative corneal infection; prophylactic perioperative ophthalmic use is not recommended for this indication. A numeric drop amount or application interval is not given.
Topical ocular fluoroquinolones can produce local irritation or hypersensitivity. Systemic retinal-toxicity observations for other fluoroquinolones are not treated as a measured norfloxacin eye-drop risk.