Ocuflox

Generic name: Ofloxacin ophthalmic solution

What is Ocuflox?

Ocuflox is an antibiotic used in the treatment of bacterial eye infections, including conjunctivitis (pink eye) and ulcers of the cornea (the transparent covering over the pupil).

What is the most important information I should know about Ocuflox?

Other forms of Ocuflox have been known to cause allergic reactions in a few patients. These reactions can be extremely serious, leading to loss of consciousness and cardiovascular collapse. Early warning signs include a skin rash, hives, and itching. Other symptoms may include swelling of the face or throat, shortness of breath, and a tingling feeling. If you develop any of these symptoms, stop using Ocuflox and seek emergency help immediately.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor if you should wear them during treatment. Ocuflox ophthalmic can cause the development of crystals on contact lenses. After applying this medication, wait at least 15 minutes before inserting contact lenses, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Who should not take Ocuflox?

Do not use Ocuflox ophthalmic if you have a viral or fungal infection in your eye. It is used to treat infections caused by bacteria only.

If you've ever had an allergic reaction to a quinolone antibiotic you should not use Ocuflox.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Ocuflox?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Ocuflox.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Bacterial Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) Adults: Apply 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 2 to 4 hours for the first 2 days, then 4 times daily for the next five days.

Bacterial Corneal Ulcers Adults: For the first 2 days, apply 1 or 2 drops to the affected eye every 30 minutes while awake; also get up 4 to 6 hours after retiring and apply 1 or 2 drops. On days 3 through 7 to 9, apply 1 or 2 drops hourly while awake. From days 7 to 9 onward, apply 1 or 2 drops 4 times a day.

Children: The safety and effectiveness have not been established in children under the age of 1 year.

How should I take Ocuflox?

Wash your hands before using the eye drops. To apply the eye drops, shake the drops gently to be sure the medicine is well mixed. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid. Position the dropper above your eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close your eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down your tear duct.

If you are using more than one drop in the same eye or drops in both eyes, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops.

What should I avoid while taking Ocuflox?

Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Do not use any eye drop that is discolored or has particles in it.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other potentially hazardous activities. Ocuflox ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Ocuflox?

If Ocuflox is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ocuflox with the following: caffeine, cyclosporine, theophylline, warfarin, and other forms of eyedrops.

What are the possible side effects of Ocuflox?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: local burning or discomfort, allergic reaction, blurred vision, dizziness, dry eye, eye pain, feeling of a foreign body in the eye, inflammation, itching, nausea, redness, sensitivity to light, stinging, swelling of the eye or face, tearing

Can I receive Ocuflox if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Ocuflox during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Ocuflox?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

How should I store Ocuflox?

Store Ocuflox at room temperature.