nalidixic acid
Last edited 11/2018
Administration is oral.
Indications:
- urinary tract infections
Cautions include:
- renal impairment
- pregnancy and breast feeding
- G6PD deficiency
- patients with AIDS - anaphylaxis has been reported
- alkalinity of urine
- inadequate fluid intake
- avoid strong sunlight
- false positive urinary glucose is tested for reducing substances
Contra-indications include:
- history of convulsive disorders
- porphyria
Side-effects include:
- nausea and vomiting
- dizziness, headache and fatigue
- confusion
- convulsions
- rash and pruritus
- joint pain
- photosensitivity
- diarrhoea
- dyspepsia
- abdominal pain
- disturbances in liver enzymes and in serum bilirubin, urea or creatinine
- eosinophilia
- myalgia and muscle weakness
- jaundice, visual disturbances
Note that with systemic and inhaled fluoroquinolones there is small increased risk of aortic aneurysm and dissection; advice for prescribing in high-risk patients (1)
Reference:
- MHRA - Drug Safety Update November 2018
The summary of product characteristics must be consulted before prescribing this drug.