This medication is used to treat eye infections.
Ofloxacin belongs to a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics. It
works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
This medication treats only bacterial eye infections. It
will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary use or overuse
of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid
contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any
other surface.
Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this
medicine. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer's directions
and check with your doctor before using them.
Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower
eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over the eye and place
one drop into the eye. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2
minutes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and
apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining out.
Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your other
eye if so directed, and if your dose is for more than 1
drop.
Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after
each use.
If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as
drops or ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before applying other
medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to
enter the eye.
Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before
driving or operating machinery.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most
benefit from it. Continue to use this medication for the full time
prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the
medication too early may result in a return of the
infection.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets
worse.
This medication may temporarily sting or burn your eyes
for a minute or two when applied. Temporary blurred vision, eye discomfort,
itching, redness, dryness, tearing, feeling as if something is in your eye,
or sensitivity to light may occur. If any of these effects last or get
worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication
because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many
people using this medication do not have serious side
effects.
Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods
may result in a new fungal eye infection. Do not use it for longer than
prescribed. Contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening
symptoms.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- eye pain
- swelling of your eyelids or face
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using ofloxacin, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or to other quinolones (such as ciprofloxacin,
levofloxacin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain
inactive ingredients (such as preservatives like benzalkonium chloride),
which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your
pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
After you apply this drug, your vision may become
temporarily blurred or unstable. Do not drive, use machinery, or do
anything that needs clear vision until you can do it
safely.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Throw away the unused medication after treatment is
completed. Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor
tells you to.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature. Discard the solution if it
changes color, becomes cloudy, or develops particles. Keep all medications
away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.