Brand Names: Zagam, Zagam Respipac

Generic Name: sparfloxacin (Pronunciation: spar FLOX a sin)

• What is sparfloxacin (Zagam)?
• What are the possible side effects of sparfloxacin (Zagam)?
• What is the most important information I should know about sparfloxacin (Zagam)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking sparfloxacin (Zagam)?
• How should I take sparfloxacin (Zagam)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Zagam)?
• What happens if I overdose (Zagam)?
• What should I avoid while taking sparfloxacin (Zagam)?
• What other drugs will affect sparfloxacin (Zagam)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is sparfloxacin (Zagam)?

Sparfloxacin has been withdrawn from the U.S. market.

Sparfloxacin is an antibiotic in a class of drugs called fluoroquinolones. It fights bacteria in the body.

Sparfloxacin is used to treat various types of bacterial infections.

Sparfloxacin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of sparfloxacin (Zagam)?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking sparfloxacin and seek emergency medical attention:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
• irregular heartbeats;
• chest pain, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, or swelling of your legs or feet;
• severe dizziness;
• seizures;
• confusion or hallucinations;
• liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue); or
• muscle or joint pain.

If you experience any of the following less serious side effects, continue taking sparfloxacin and talk to your doctor:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation;
• headache, lightheadedness, or drowsiness;
• ringing in the ears; or
• increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Read the Zagam (sparfloxacin) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

What is the most important information I should know about sparfloxacin (Zagam)?

Sparfloxacin has been withdrawn from the U.S. market.

Take all of the sparfloxacin that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may start to improve before the infection is completely treated.

Take sparfloxacin with a full glass of water (8 ounces). Drink several extra glasses of fluid each day to prevent sparfloxacin crystals from forming in the urine.

Do not take antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum (e.g., Tums or Rolaids), the ulcer medicine sucralfate (Carafate), or vitamin or mineral supplements that contain iron or zinc for a minimum of 4 hours after a dose of sparfloxacin. Taking antacids, sucralfate, or vitamin or mineral supplements too close to a dose of sparfloxacin can greatly decrease the effects of the antibiotic.