Enoxacin is a prescription medication that is used primarily to treat urinary tract infections as well as a sexually transmitted disease known as gonorrhea, although it may also be used to treat other bacterial infections. This antibiotic is designed to be taken by mouth and should be used for the full amount of time suggested by the prescribing physician, even if symptoms seem to improve. Some of the most commonly reported side effects of enoxacin include headaches, nausea, and an increased sensitivity to sunlight. More serious side effects that should be reported to a doctor right away include seizures, damage to the liver, and allergic reactions. Specific concerns about the use of enoxacin should be addressed with a doctor or pharmacist.
While enoxacin can be used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, it is used most often to treat infections affecting the urinary tract, such as the kidneys or bladder. Gonorrhea is a type of sexually transmitted infection that may also benefit from the use of this medication. The typical round of treatment is between one and two weeks, depending on the dosage of the drug and the severity of the infection. Symptoms often begin to improve after a few days, but enoxacin should be taken for the entire length of time that it is prescribed in order to ensure that all of the harmful bacteria have been destroyed. It is important to note that antibiotics are not successful at treating infections caused by a fungus or virus.
Most enoxacin side effects are relatively mild in nature and do not pose significant health concerns, although any new or bothersome symptoms that develop after beginning treatment with this antibiotic should be evaluated by a medical professional. Nausea and vomiting are commonly reported symptoms and may be reduced by eating a small meal or snack when taking the medication. Mild to moderate headaches are considered normal, although sudden or severe head pain may indicate complications such as a stroke or an aneurysm and should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Severe side effects of enoxacin are rare but can be life threatening. Jaundice, a medical condition causing the skin and white portion of the eyes to appear yellow, may suggest that liver damage has occurred. Seizures should be treated as a medical emergency, especially if there is no prior history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders. Allergic reactions may cause symptoms such as a skin rash, swelling of the throat and tongue, or difficulty breathing.