Floxin

ofloxacin

Brand(s):

• Ofler Onoff

Manufacturer:

• Aristopharma Ltd. / Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd.

Disease(s):

• Conjunctivitis

Known as:

• Floxin / Floxin Otic

Ofloxacin Tablet

What is Ofloxacin?

Ofloxacin is a quinolone antibiotic. Its primary function is to either kill bacteria or inhibit their growth. It's commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections affecting the lungs, skin, and pelvis. It's crucial to remember that ofloxacin is ineffective against viral infections like colds or the flu.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting ofloxacin, it's vital to inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing conditions. This includes:

• Arteriosclerosis
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• History of seizures
• Other chronic illnesses
• Allergies to ofloxacin, other fluoroquinolone antibiotics, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding

This information helps your doctor determine the appropriate dosage and assess potential risks.

How to Take Ofloxacin

Take ofloxacin orally with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food. Maintain a consistent schedule for taking your medication; do not exceed the prescribed dosage. It's important to complete the entire course of treatment, even if you feel better before finishing all the tablets. Skipping doses or prematurely stopping treatment can lead to treatment failure.

Parents should consult their pediatrician before giving ofloxacin to children, as special considerations may be necessary.

Overdosage: In case of suspected overdose, immediately contact a poison control center or emergency room.

Important Note: Ofloxacin is for personal use only. Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double the dose to compensate for a missed one.

Potential Drug Interactions

Avoid taking ofloxacin concurrently with the following medications:

• Cisapride
• Droperidol
• Certain medications for irregular heart rhythm (specify which ones if possible)

Ofloxacin may also interact with:

• Antacids
• Cimetidine
• Cyclosporine
• Didanosine
• Diabetes medications
• Pain and swelling medications (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Multivitamins with minerals
• Probenecid
• Sucralfate
• Theophylline
• Warfarin

This list might not be exhaustive. Always provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of all medications, herbs, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements you are using. Also, disclose any alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drug use, as these can influence the effectiveness of ofloxacin.

Monitoring Your Health While Taking Ofloxacin

Report any worsening or persistent symptoms to your doctor. Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day. Diabetic patients should closely monitor their blood sugar levels. Any unusual readings necessitate immediate cessation of ofloxacin and consultation with their doctor.

Drowsiness and dizziness are possible side effects. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how ofloxacin affects you. Rise slowly from a seated or lying position, especially if you are elderly, to minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting.

Ofloxacin can increase sun sensitivity. Limit sun exposure; if unavoidable, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps.

Do not self-treat diarrhea with over-the-counter remedies. Contact your doctor if diarrhea persists for more than two days or is severe and watery.

Avoid taking didanosine, sucralfate, antacids, or iron/zinc products within two hours of taking ofloxacin.

Potential Side Effects

Report these side effects to your doctor immediately:

• Allergic reactions (rash, hives, facial swelling)
• Breathing difficulties
• Chest pain
• Confusion, nightmares, hallucinations
• Fever, chills
• Irregular heartbeat, fainting
• Joint, muscle, or tendon pain/swelling
• Skin reactions (redness, blistering, peeling)
• Seizures
• Tremor
• Unusual pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but report if persistent or bothersome):

• Diarrhea
• Sleep disturbances
• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting
• Stomach upset, gas
• Unusual taste
• Vaginal irritation

This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects.

Storage

Keep out of reach of children. Store at a temperature between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius (59 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit). Keep the container tightly closed. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.