Norfloxacin: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Norfloxacin is a fluoroquinolone often used for urinary and gut infections. It belongs to the Antibiotic (other) group. These antibiotics from various families treat specific bacterial infections; they do not work against viruses.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Antibiotic (other)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
Some infective diarrhoea
Preventing infection in some people with advanced liver disease (specialist use)

Common brand names

India: Norflox, Uritas
Worldwide: Noroxin

Common side effects

Nausea or tummy upset
Headache or dizziness
Rash

Before taking it — precautions

Tell your doctor about epilepsy, heart rhythm problems, myasthenia gravis, diabetes or kidney problems
Not usually for children or in pregnancy unless your doctor decides it is needed
Keep it apart from antacids, iron, zinc, calcium or milk products, which block absorption

When to see a doctor urgently

Tendon pain or swelling, especially at the heel — stop and see a doctor
Numbness, burning or tingling in hands/feet, or confusion
Fast/irregular heartbeat, severe allergy or bloody diarrhoea (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of norfloxacin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Is norfloxacin good for all infections?

No — it is mainly used for urinary and some gut infections because it does not reach high levels elsewhere in the body.

Should I take it with milk?

Avoid taking it with milk, yoghurt, antacids or iron/zinc supplements at the same time, as they reduce absorption.

Can it cause tendon problems?

Rarely, as with other fluoroquinolones. Stop and see a doctor if you get tendon pain.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.