Factive (Gemifloxacin Mesylate)

Do’s

• Take it exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. This includes dosage, frequency (usually once daily), and with or without food.
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking Factive, unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
• Take it at the same time each day for consistent results.
• Finish the entire prescription, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence of the infection.
• Inform your healthcare provider of any existing medical conditions before starting Factive.
• Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. This helps avoid potential interactions.

• Don't skip or stop taking Factive without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't take more than the prescribed dose.
• Don't take Factive with dairy products (milk, yogurt), calcium-fortified juices, or certain medications that can affect its absorption. Ask your healthcare provider for guidance.
• Don't take Factive for viral infections like the common cold or flu. It's only effective against bacterial infections.
• Don'toperate machinery or drive if Factive causes dizziness or other side effects that could impair your judgment.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Rash

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions, including hives, difficult breathing, swelling in the face or throat
• Severe skin reaction, indicated by fever, sore throat, burning in the eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling
• Central Nervous System effects, such as seizures, changes in mood or behavior (e.g., restlessness, anxiety, confusion, depression, suicidal thoughts or acts, nightmares), and hallucinations
• Tendon problems, including tendinitis and tendon rupture
• Nerve damage, which may cause permanent nerve damage
• Serious heart rhythm problems, such as QT prolongation
• Low blood sugar, which can lead to coma

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Factive,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have allergies to gemifloxacin, other quinolone antibiotics, or any ingredients in Factive.

Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before using Factive, especially regarding:

• Diabetes
• Joint/tendon problems
• Kidney problems
• Mental/mood disorders (depression)
• Myasthenia gravis
• Nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy)
• Seizure disorder
• Blood vessel problems (aneurysm, blockage)
• High blood pressure
• Certain genetic conditions (Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome)

Factive may cause irregular heartbeat (QT prolongation). This is a serious but rare side effect.

The risk increases with certain medical conditions or medications. Inform your healthcare provider about any relevant conditions or medications you take.

Low blood potassium or magnesium levels can also increase the risk.

Factive may affect blood sugar levels, especially in diabetics. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and report any changes to your healthcare provider.

Factive may cause dizziness. Avoid activities requiring alertness (driving, operating machinery) until you feel normal again.

Alcohol and marijuana can worsen dizziness. Limit alcohol and discuss marijuana use with your healthcare provider.

Factive increases sun sensitivity. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.

Factive might interfere with the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines. Discuss any upcoming vaccinations with your healthcare provider.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you use, including Factive, before surgery.

Children may be more susceptible to joint/tendon problems.

Older adults are at higher risk for tendon problems, QT prolongation, and aortic tears.

Factive should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Factive passes into breast milk in small amounts. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Factive may cause serious side effects, including:

• Tendon damage (tendonitis, rupture)
• Nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy)
• Muscle weakness (worsening myasthenia gravis)

Seek immediate medical help if you experience any of these symptoms.

Stop exercising and seek medical attention for joint/muscle/tendon pain or swelling.

The risk of tendon problems increases with age, corticosteroid use, and kidney, heart, or lung transplants.

Inform your healthcare provider if you experience new or worsening muscle weakness or breathing problems.