GENERIC NAME: trovafloxacin mesylate
BRAND NAME: Trovan
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Many common infections in humans are
caused by single cell organisms, called bacteria. Bacteria can grow and
multiply, infecting different parts of the body. Medicines that control and
eradicate these bacteria are called antibiotics. Trovafloxacin is an
antibiotic that stops multiplication of bacteria by preventing the
reproduction and repair of their genetic material (DNA). It is among a class of
antibiotics called fluoroquinolones, a class that includes
ciprofloxacin (Cipro), norfloxacin (Noroxin), ofloxacin (Floxin),
levofloxacin (Levaquin), and lomefloxacin (Maxaquin). Trovafloxacin was
approved by the FDA in 1997.
GENERIC AVAILABLE: No
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 100mg (round; blue), 200mg (oval; blue)
STORAGE: Trovafloxacin should be stored below 86°F.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Trovafloxacin is used to treat infections of the
sinuses, skin, lungs, and airways caused by susceptible bacteria.
Trovafloxacin also is frequently used to treat infections of the urine and prostate,
including those infections caused by bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics.
Trovafloxacin can also be used to treat various obstetric infections.
DOSING: Trovafloxacin usually is given once daily, with or
without food. It is important to take it at least 2 hours before or 2 hours
after antacids or mineral supplements containing iron, calcium, zinc, or
magnesium which bind the antibiotic and prevent its absorption.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Minerals with 2 or 3 positive charges, called
divalent or trivalent ions, respectively, can bind onto trovafloxacin and
other fluoroquinolones, markedly reducing the amount of drug that is
absorbed. Such products, including antacids, should be taken at least 2
hours before or 2 hours after trovafloxacin. Other drugs which contain
these ions and which can similarly interact with levofloxacin include
sucralfate (Carafate) and didanosine, dDI
Other fluoroquinolones have been reported to increase blood levels of
theophylline (Theo-Dur), warfarin (Coumadin), and cyclosporine (Sandimmune;
Neoral). There have not yet been similar reports with trovafloxacin.
PREGNANCY: Trovafloxacin is not recommended for use in pregnant
women since trovafloxacin causes joint and bone deformities in juvenile animals
of several species.
NURSING MOTHERS: Trovafloxacin is not recommended for use in
lactating women. Trovafloxacin causes joint and bone deformities in
juvenile animals of several species. In fact, trovafloxacin is not
recommended in persons under the age of 18 years.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequently reported side effects
associated with trovafloxacin include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache,
lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, itching, and rash.
Trovafloxacin as well as other antibiotics in the fluoroquinolone class
of antibiotics, has been associated with tendinitis and even rupture of tendons,
particularly the Achilles tendon. Some physicians recommend that their
patients discontinue vigorous exercise while they are taking fluoroquinolone
antibiotics.
Last Editorial Review: 4/3/1999 11:13:00 AM
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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