Description of Zagam

Zagam is an antibiotic medicine prescribed to treat bacterial lung infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis.These infections can be quite dangerous for the individuals who develop them, since they often list fever, shortness of breath, and fluid buildup, as their most common symptoms. Without treatment, they may even lead to more serious complications like sepsis or abscess.

Zagam comes as an oral tablet, and is available either in its brand name form or in its generic form under the name Sparfloxacin. A valid prescription is required to start taking it. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Zagam Works in Your Body

Zagam belongs to a group of medications called fluoroquinolone antibiotics, which fight certain bacteria in the body. Zagam works by inhibiting vital enzymes the bacteria need to replicate their DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) so they are able to grow and multiply. Without the enzymes (topoisomerase II and IV) the bacteria cannot continue to increase their numbers and they will die.

Lung Conditions Treated by Zagam

When you are exposed to a bacterial irritant and it manages to make it by your own body’s defenses, it will settle deep in your lungs causing an infection. As an immune response, your body will release white blood cells to fight the infection which fills your bronchi and tiny air sacs with fluid causing the symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath.

Pneumonia is a respiratory condition that can have numerous causes so your physician will want to make certain that you have bacterial and not viral pneumonia. As a result, treatment with Sparfloxacin may be started before test results show whether to continue with Zagam or stop taking it and treat the viral infection symptomatically.

Before You Take Zagam

Ask your doctor if Zagam is safe to take while you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or you are breast feeding. Zagam may not be right for people with kidney disease, heart disease, or epilepsy, so be sure to tell your doctor whether you have a history of these conditions or other medical issues. Provide information regarding the OTC and Rx drugs, herbal remedies, and vitamin or dietary supplements you currently take or use. This helps your doctor to determine if Zagam is the best drug for you.

Proper Use of Zagam

It’s important to take the full course of Sparfloxacin prescribed even if you are feeling better.Zagam is prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections and will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. You should not participate in any activities that require you to be alert until you know how Zagam will affect you.

Zagam reacts negatively with several magnesium, zinc, and aluminum products (antacids). Make sure to ask your doctor before starting these or any other medications. You will also need to stay well hydrated during treatment with Zagam; remember to drink plenty of fluids and to take the medication with a full glass of water.

Possible Side Effects of Zagam

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
• Hearing problems

You should stop taking Zagam and seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following serious side effects: irregular heartbeat; chest pain or discomfort; muscle or joint pain; seizures; severe dizziness; unusual bleeding or bruising; yellowing of the skin/eyes; severe fatigue.

Drugs Similar to Zagam

• Factive
• Cipro
• Floxin
• Levaquin