Alternative Medicine
The following information is specific for alternative and complementary medicine.
For additional evidence-based information on diseases, conditions, symptoms,
diagnosis, treatment and wellness issues, continue searching the
Healthwise Knowledgebase.
Also indexed as:
Factive
Gemifloxacin is used to treat bacterial infections, such as chronic bronchitis and mild to moderate pneumonia.
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary
indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary,
and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
A recent study showed that taking calcium carbonate and gemifloxacin at the same time results in a significant reduction in blood levels of the drug.1 Consequently, gemifloxacin and calcium supplements should not be taken at the same time.
A review of interactions involving quinolone antibiotics indicated that supplements containing iron, when taken at the same time as gemifloxacin, might reduce absorption of the drug up to 50%.2 Consequently, gemifloxacin and supplements containing iron should not be taken at the same time.
One study showed that taking an antacid containing magnesium and aluminum ten minutes before gemifloxacin results in an 85% reduction in the absorption of the drug.3 Consequently, gemifloxacin and supplements containing magnesium should not be taken at the same time.
Allen A, Vousden M, Porter A, Lewis A. Effect of Maalox on the bioavailability of oral gemifloxacin in healthy volunteers. Chemotherapy 1999;45:504-11.
Lode H. Evidence of different profiles of side effects and drug-drug interactions among the quinolones-the pharmacokinetic standpoint. Chemotherapy 2001;47 Suppl 3:24-31; discussion 44-8.
Pletz MW, Petzold P, Allen, et al. Effect of calcium carbonate on bioavailability of orally administered gemifloxacin. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2003;47:2158-60.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here.
