Baxdela

The typical dosage of Baxdela is:

• For ABSSSI:
• Oral: 450 mg every 12 hours.
• IV: 300 mg every 12 hours.
• For CABP:
• Oral: 450 mg every 12 hours.
• IV: 300 mg every 12 hours.

The duration of therapy typically ranges from 5 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the infection and the patient’s clinical response.

Baxdela is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to delafloxacin, other fluoroquinolones, or any component of the formulation.
• History of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use.

Patients using Baxdela should be advised to:

• Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and complete the full course of therapy to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
• Avoid taking Baxdela with dairy products, antacids, or supplements containing calcium, magnesium, aluminum, or iron, as these can interfere with the absorption of the drug.
• Stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can exacerbate side effects.
• Report any unusual symptoms such as tendon pain, muscle weakness, numbness, or tingling, which may indicate serious side effects like tendonitis or peripheral neuropathy.
• Avoid unnecessary sun exposure or use sunscreen, as fluoroquinolones like delafloxacin can increase photosensitivity.

Common side effects of Baxdela may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Dizziness

Serious side effects can include:

• Tendon Rupture: Particularly in older adults or those on corticosteroid therapy.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities.
• CNS Effects: Such as seizures, anxiety, confusion, or tremors.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Including severe rash, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis.

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any severe or persistent side effects.

• Tendonitis and Tendon Rupture: Fluoroquinolones, including Baxdela, have been associated with an increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture, particularly in older adults or those on concurrent corticosteroid therapy. Patients should be advised to discontinue Baxdela and seek medical attention if they experience tendon pain, swelling, or inflammation.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Baxdela may cause irreversible nerve damage, leading to peripheral neuropathy. Patients should be warned about the signs and symptoms of nerve damage and advised to stop the medication if they occur.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Baxdela may cause central nervous system (CNS) effects, including seizures, dizziness, or tremors. Patients with a history of seizures or other CNS disorders should use Baxdela with caution.
• Exacerbation of Myasthenia Gravis: Fluoroquinolones can exacerbate muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. Baxdela should be avoided in these patients.

Baxdela may interact with other medications, including:

• Antacids and Supplements: Containing magnesium, aluminum, calcium, or iron, which can reduce the absorption of delafloxacin.
• NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may increase the risk of CNS effects like seizures.
• Warfarin: Delafloxacin may enhance the effects of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Alternative treatments for ABSSSI and CABP include:

• Other Fluoroquinolones: Such as levofloxacin or moxifloxacin, depending on the bacterial strain and patient-specific factors.
• Beta-Lactam Antibiotics: Such as cephalexin for less severe infections or ceftaroline for MRSA.
• Macrolides: Such as azithromycin, particularly for patients with respiratory infections like CABP.

The choice of treatment depends on the type of infection, bacterial susceptibility, and the patient’s medical history.