Nadifloxacin
Pronunciation: (nah-dih-FLOX-uh-sin).
- Generic name
- Nadifloxacin
- Brand names
- Nadixa, Nadoxin, No approved Canadian brand, Nadibact, No approved US brand, Nadiflox
- Drug class
- Topical Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: India
Australia: · Full directory
What Nadifloxacin is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Nadifloxacin works
Nadifloxacin is a topical fluoroquinolone antibiotic that inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, and repair. This leads to rapid bacterial cell death. It is active against a range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Propionibacterium acnes.
What Nadifloxacin is used for
Acne vulgaris
Acne vulgaris (2)
Bacterial skin infections
Bacterial skin infections (2)
Folliculitis
Folliculitis (2)
Impetigo
Impetigo (2)
Before taking Nadifloxacin
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Nadifloxacin or other quinolones. (Contraindication) (2)
- Safety in pregnancy and lactation is not fully established. (Contraindication) (2)
- use only if benefits outweigh risks. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take Nadifloxacin
- General Instructions: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice daily, as prescribed by your healthcare provider.. Adult Dosing: Apply to the affected skin area once or twice daily, typically for 1–2 weeks or as directed.. Pediatric Dosing: Safety and efficacy in children under 14 years have not been established. Use only if prescribed by a pediatric specialist.. Administration: Wash and dry the affected area before application. Apply a small amount and gently rub in. Wash hands after use unless treating the hands.. When To Stop: Complete the full course as prescribed. If severe irritation or an allergic reaction occurs, seek medical advice promptly; let the clinician you see advise on whether to continue or stop.. Storage: Store at room temperature (below 25°C/77°F), away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Overdose
Overdose with topical Nadifloxacin is unlikely. If large amounts are accidentally ingested or applied to large areas, seek medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Skin irritation
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Itching
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Burning sensation
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Redness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Dry skin
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Allergic reactions (rare)
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Photosensitivity
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
For external use only — serious
Symptoms: For external use only. If severe irritation or an allergic reaction occurs, seek medical advice promptly; let the clinician you see advise on whether to continue or stop. Not recommended for use in children under 14 years unless prescribed. Do not use for viral or fungal skin infections. Prolonged use may lead to bacterial resistance.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Nadifloxacin or other quinolones. Use with caution in patients with a history of allergic reactions to antibiotics. Not recommended for use on mucous membranes, broken skin, or in children under 14 years unless specifically prescribed. Safety in pregnancy and lactation is not fully established; use only if benefits outweigh risks.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Nadifloxacin is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream when used topically, so drug interactions are rare. However, avoid using other topical antibiotics or skin treatments on the same area unless directed by your healthcare provider. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy has not been fully established for nadifloxacin. It is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy unless a healthcare provider determines the benefits outweigh the risks. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, seek medical advice before use. (2)
Breastfeeding
There is limited information on whether nadifloxacin passes into breast milk. If prescribed while breastfeeding, avoid applying it to or near the breast area to reduce the chance of infant contact, and discuss use with your healthcare provider. (2)
Children
Frequency: Not established for pediatric use.. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use.. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable for topical use.. Max Single Dose: Not applicable for topical use.. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children. (2)
Renal Impairment
Nadifloxacin cream is applied topically and is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream; the Pediatric Oncall drug reference reviewed for this page does not describe a graded renal- or hepatic-impairment dosing adjustment for the topical form, consistent with its low systemic absorption. No renal- or hepatic-impairment dosing table exists for this topical product; use should still follow the prescriber's judgment, particularly for widespread or prolonged application. (2)
Hepatic Impairment
Nadifloxacin cream is applied topically and is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream; the Pediatric Oncall drug reference reviewed for this page does not describe a graded renal- or hepatic-impairment dosing adjustment for the topical form, consistent with its low systemic absorption. No renal- or hepatic-impairment dosing table exists for this topical product; use should still follow the prescriber's judgment, particularly for widespread or prolonged application. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Store at room temperature (below 25C/77F), away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Acne vulgaris
Dose summary: Apply a thin layer of nadifloxacin to the affected area twice daily.
Renal context: No renal-impairment dosing table exists for topical nadifloxacin. Because it is applied to the skin and minimally absorbed systemically, the Pediatric Oncall drug reference reviewed for this page does not describe a renal-based dose adjustment; use over large body-surface areas or for prolonged periods should still be guided by the prescriber. (2)
Frequently asked questions
What is Nadifloxacin used for?
Nadifloxacin is used to treat bacterial skin infections such as acne vulgaris and impetigo.
How long should I use Nadifloxacin cream?
Use as prescribed, typically for 1–2 weeks. Do not stop early unless advised by your doctor, even if symptoms improve.
Can Nadifloxacin be used during pregnancy?
Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor. Safety in pregnancy is not fully established.
What should I do if I experience severe skin irritation?
If you develop severe irritation, rash, or allergic symptoms, seek medical advice promptly; let the clinician you see advise on whether to continue or stop using nadifloxacin.
Is Nadifloxacin effective against fungal or viral infections?
No, Nadifloxacin is only effective against certain bacterial infections and should not be used for fungal or viral skin conditions.
Can I use cosmetics or other skin products with Nadifloxacin?
Avoid applying other topical products to the same area unless your doctor advises. Some products may cause additional irritation.
What happens if I accidentally get Nadifloxacin in my eyes?
Rinse your eyes thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
What happens if I take too much Nadifloxacin?
As Nadifloxacin is a topical medication, systemic overdose is unlikely. However, excessive application may lead to increased local irritation, redness, or burning. If you suspect an overdose or experience severe adverse reactions, immediately wash the affected area and seek emergency medical attention. Always adhere to the prescribed dosage and application instructions to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Nadifloxacin?
Since Nadifloxacin is a topical antibiotic, systemic absorption is minimal, and direct interactions with alcohol are generally not expected. However, it's always prudent to discuss alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. While not directly contraindicated, maintaining overall health supports the body's ability to recover from infection.
Is Nadifloxacin safe during pregnancy?
The safety of Nadifloxacin during pregnancy has not been definitively established. It is crucial to consult your doctor before using Nadifloxacin if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Your healthcare provider will assess the potential risks and benefits to determine the most appropriate course of treatment for your specific situation, ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby.
What is the mechanism of action of Nadifloxacin?
Nadifloxacin is a topical fluoroquinolone antibiotic that inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, and repair. This leads to rapid bacterial cell death. It is active against a range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Propionibacterium acnes.
What is the generic name of Nadifloxacin?
The generic name is Nadifloxacin. It is sold under brand names including Nadixa, Nadoxin, No approved Canadian brand, Nadibact, No approved US brand, Nadiflox.
What class of drug is Nadifloxacin?
Nadifloxacin is classed as: Topical Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic.
References
- MedGuideGlobal clinician-authored medicine record for nadifloxacinMedGuideGlobal · Global · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 1
- Nadifloxacin Drug IndexPediatric Oncall · India · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 2
- Nadifloxacin: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, FAQsMedicover Hospitals · India · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 3
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Nadifloxacin names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
India
- Nadibact1% w/w (10 g tube) · Cipla Limited
- Nadoxin1% w/w (10 g tube) · Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd
- Naditret10 g tube · KLM Laboratories
- Nadifa10 g tube · Prism Lifescience