This medication is a quinolone antibiotic used for eye
infections (such as conjunctivitis).
This medication treats only bacterial eye infections. It
will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary use or misuse
of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed
by your doctor, usually 3 times a day for the first 2 days and then 2 times
a day for the next 5 days.
For best results, use exactly as directed for the full
time prescribed. Stopping this medication too soon may result in a return
of the infection.
To apply eye drops, wash hands first. To avoid
contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any
other surface.
Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower
eyelid to make a pouch. Place the dropper directly over eye and instill the
prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1
to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of the eye near the nose and
apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining away
from the eye. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the
dropper.
If you are using other kinds of eye drops, wait at least
five minutes before applying the other medications.
Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before
driving or operating machinery.
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.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
in 7 days.
Blurred vision, watery eyes, headache, eye
irritation/pain/dryness/redness, bad taste in mouth may occur. If any of
these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- eye redness that doesn't go away
- swelling of the eye or eyelid
Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods
may result in a new fungal eye infection. Do not use this medication for
longer than prescribed. Contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening
symptoms.
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)
- 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 this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to quinolone antibiotics (such as
ciprofloxacin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may
contain inactive ingredients, 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.
After you apply this drug, your vision may become
temporarily blurred. 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.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your
doctor tells you to.
Do not share this medication with others.
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.
Different brands of this medication have different
storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store
your brand, or ask your pharmacist. 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.