Nalidixic acid

About nalidixic acid

Nalidixic acid is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections; it works by killing bacteria that cause the infection.

Before taking nalidixic acid

Before taking nalidixic acid make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from or have ever suffered from epilepsy or fits.
• If you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder).
• If you have ever suffered from tendon or muscular problems.
• If the patient is under 3 months of age.
• If you suffer from glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.
• If you suffer from liver disease.
• If you suffer from renal problems.
• If you suffer from diabetes (this medicine affects some types of urine glucose measurements).

How to take nalidixic acid

• Take exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• You must complete the course, take at regular spaced intervals.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Important: If you experience pain or inflammation in your joints, particularly hips, knees or ankles stop taking nalidixic acid and rest the limb until the pain eases and contact your doctor the next working day.
• Important: Oral contraceptives may be less effective while you are taking nalidixic acid. In addition to taking the contraceptive pill, use a barrier method of contraception (e.g. condoms) while you are taking nalidixic acid and for at least seven days after your course has finished. If these seven days run into a 'pill-free' week, start taking the next packet of contraceptives without leaving a break. If you are taking the type of contraceptive pill that is taken every day or if you need any further advice, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Nalidixic acid may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight than usual. Avoid strong sunlight and sunbeds and use a suncream of at least factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.

Can nalidixic acid cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Other side effects include itching, increased sensitivity to sunlight, muscle pain or weakness, problems sleeping, depression, hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't real), confusion, disturbed sense of taste or smell, convulsions.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store nalidixic acid

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines