Nalidixic Acid
Also known as: Nalidixinic Acid
Nalidixic Acid is antibacterial of quinolone group. It was introduced in 1963. Nalidixic Acid is non-fluorinated urinary antiseptic to which resistnce readily occurs. Nalidixic Acid is effective in uncomplicated urinary-tract infections. May cause gastro-intestinal symptoms and allergic reactions.May exacerbate epilepsy and respiratory depression.
Primary Characteristics
Nalidixic Acid is also known as Nalidixinic Acid.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Quinolone.
It belongs to DNA Gyrase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotic, Quinolone pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 232.2 · pKa: 6.7 · Solubility in Water: Insolble · Solubility in Alcohol: Slightly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Nalidixic Acid.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Nalidixic Acid has an oral bioavailability is 92.5% (±2.5%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 45.5% (±4.5%).
Distribution: Nalidixic Acid has a volume of distribution is 0.4 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 93%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is ~ 90 min, renal excretion is 85%.
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Indications
Nalidixic Acid is primarily indicated in conditions like Bacterial infections, GI infections, Long-term treatment of healed gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, Muscle relaxation (long duration) for surgery and intubation, Urinary tract infection.
Nalidixic Acid is also indicated for secondary conditions like Shigellosis.
Contraindications
Nalidixic Acid is contraindicated in conditions like Epilepsy, Convulsions, Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Nalidixic Acid's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 4 G | 4 G | Every 6h | PO | For at least 7-14 days |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 60 mg/kg | 60 mg/kg | Every 6h | Oral | For at least 7 days reducing there after to about 30mg/kg daily in 4 divided doses. |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 12.5 mg/kg | 12.5 mg/kg | Every 6h | Oral | Not recommended under 3 month |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Nalidixic Acid in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Thrombocytopenia , Cholestatic jaundice , Hemolytic anemia , Cholestatic jaundice , Hemolytic anemia , Photosensitivity , Eosinophilia , Eosinophilia , Leucopenia, Raised intracranial pressure , Hemolytic anemia, Arthralgia .
Nalidixic Acid produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Anaphylaxis . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Nalidixic Acid are Disorientation , Nausea, Drowsiness, Drowsiness, Hallucinations , Ataxia, Hyperglycemia, Light headedness, Teichopsia, Hyperpnea, Glycosuria .
Nalidixic Acid is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Dizziness, Drowsiness, GI upset, Muscular weakness, Nausea, Pruritus , Urticaria, Vertigo, Vomiting , Wakness.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Nalidixic Acid may interfere in the diagnosis of Fale +ve result with Glucose Estimation based on Copper Reduction for Glycosuria , Estimation of 17-Ketosteroid , False +ve result in Pisano Assay of Urinary Vanillylmandelic Acid .
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.2.2 — Quinolones