Ofloxacin Ear Solution
Ofloxacin (oh FLOKS a sin) is a generic medication prescribed for treating certain bacterial infections. Ofloxacin belongs to a group of antibiotic drugs called fluoroquinolones.
Ofloxacin (oh FLOKS a sin) is a generic medication prescribed for treating certain bacterial infections. Ofloxacin belongs to a group of antibiotic drugs called fluoroquinolones.
- Generic
- • Solution
- • 5ml of .3pct
- • 1 Bottle
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Introduction
These approved uses differ based on the form of ofloxacin your doctor prescribes.
This article describes ofloxacin’s uses, side effects, and more. Below you’ll also find some coupon options to help save on the cost of ofloxacin.
This article doesn’t provide coupons for all forms of ofloxacin. To find coupons for ofloxacin oral tablet, see this article. For coupons to use on ofloxacin eye drops, see this article.
Boxed warnings
Ofloxacin has boxed warnings about the following risks. Boxed warnings are serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- worsening of myasthenia gravis with ofloxacin oral tablet
- serious side effects such as tendon problems, nerve problems, and central nervous system problems with ofloxacin oral tablet
For details, see the “Interactions and warnings for ofloxacin” section below.
Uses of ofloxacin
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs such as ofloxacin for certain conditions. Approved uses for ofloxacin are described below. These uses differ based on the form of ofloxacin prescribed.
Use for certain bacterial infections
Doctors may prescribe ofloxacin ear drops, eye drops, and oral tablet for treating certain bacterial infections. It’s usually prescribed as a short-term antibiotic treatment.
Different forms of ofloxacin are approved for certain uses in different age ranges:
- Ofloxacin eye drops are prescribed to treat certain bacterial infections in the eye, including pink eye. They can be used by adults and children ages 1 years and older.
- Ofloxacin ear drops are prescribed to treat certain bacterial infections in the ear. Depending on the type of ear infection, they can be used by adults and children ages 6 months and older.
- Ofloxacin oral tablets are prescribed to treat certain bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infection (UTI). They can be used by adults.
Bacteria are small organisms found nearly everywhere, including inside our body. Some bacteria help our body function, but some can cause infections. Symptoms of an infection depend on factors such as where the infection occurs.
Ofloxacin is an antibiotic that kills bacteria and stops its growth in your body. Doctors may not prescribe ofloxacin ear drops, eye drops, and oral tablet in certain situations, such as when tests show the bacteria is resistant to ofloxacin. “Resistant” means the antibiotic won’t work to kill the bacteria. Depending on your infection, your doctor may order tests to check if your infection is resistant to ofloxacin.
Side effects of ofloxacin
Ofloxacin may cause mild or serious side effects. More common mild side effects of ofloxacin and its serious side effects are listed below. This article doesn’t include all possible side effects of the drug. Side effects can vary based on your age, overall health, and any other medications you take.
To learn more about ofloxacin’s side effects, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. You can also read the prescribing information* for ofloxacin.
* To view ofloxacin’s prescribing information, see the “Article resources” section below.
Mild side effects
More common mild side effects reported with some forms of ofloxacin are listed below. These side effects may differ based on the form of ofloxacin you take or use.
This article doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. To learn more about ofloxacin’s side effects based on the form, see the prescribing information* for ofloxacin.
With many drugs, mild side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If the side effects are bothersome, tell your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to suggest ways to manage them.
Ofloxacin ear drop’s mild side effects include:
- temporary irritation after applying the drop
- itching
- earache
- dizziness
- mild allergic reaction†
Ofloxacin eye drop’s mild side effects include:
- temporary burning or discomfort after applying the drop
- itchy eyes
- red eyes
- blurry vision
- mild allergic reaction†
Ofloxacin oral tablet’s mild side effects include:
- nausea
- headache
- insomnia (problems sleeping)
- dizziness
- mild allergic reaction†
* To view ofloxacin’s prescribing information, see the “Article resources” section below.
† For details about this side effect, see the “Interactions and warnings for ofloxacin” section below.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects of ofloxacin are listed below. These side effects may differ based on the form of ofloxacin you take or use.
This article doesn’t include all possible serious side effects of the drug. To learn more about ofloxacin’s side effects based on the form, see the prescribing information* for ofloxacin.
With many drugs, serious side effects are possible but not common. If you have serious side effects from this drug, call your doctor right away. If you’re having severe symptoms or a medical emergency, call 911 or a local emergency number.
In general, ofloxacin’s serious side effects include:
- boxed warning: risk of worsening of myasthenia gravis†
- boxed warning: risk of serious side effects such as tendon problems, nerve problems, and central nervous system problems with ofloxacin tablets†
- severe allergic reaction†
* To view ofloxacin’s prescribing information, see the “Article resources” section below.
† For details about this side effect, see the “Interactions and warnings for ofloxacin” section below.
Dosage of ofloxacin
The dosage of ofloxacin your doctor prescribes may vary based on your condition and certain other factors. Talk with your doctor about the dosage you should take.
Taking and using ofloxacin
Ofloxacin oral tablet is taken by mouth, with or without food.
Ofloxacin ear drops are given as a drop into your ear.
Ofloxacin eye drops are given as a drop into your eye.
Your doctor will talk with you about how to use ofloxacin. They’ll explain how much to take or apply and how often. Always follow your doctor’s recommendation.
Overdose of ofloxacin
You should not take or use more ofloxacin than your doctor prescribes. For some drugs, doing so may lead to serious side effects or overdose.
If you think you’ve taken too much ofloxacin, call your doctor or pharmacist right away. Or you could call 800-222-1222 to speak with someone at America’s Poison Centers. You can also use its online resource. If you have concerning symptoms, call 911 or a local emergency number immediately. You can also go to the closest emergency room.
Common questions about ofloxacin
Below you’ll find answers to a few commonly asked questions about ofloxacin.
Is ofloxacin similar to norfloxacin, levofloxacin, or ciprofloxacin?
Yes, ofloxacin is similar to norfloxacin, levofloxacin, and ciprofloxacin (Cipro).
All these medications belong to a group of antibiotic drugs called fluoroquinolones. These drugs work in a similar way and can cause similar side effects.
Levofloxacin is available as an oral tablet and an eye drop, among other forms. Ciprofloxacin is available as an oral tablet, eye drops, and ear drops, among other forms. However, unlike the other medications discussed here, norfloxacin is no longer available in the United States.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you’d like to learn more about how ofloxacin compares to other antibiotics.
What brand names are available for ofloxacin?
Ocuflox is an antibiotic solution available as the brand-name ofloxacin eye drops. Ofloxacin oral tablets and ofloxacin ear drops are not available as a brand-name product.
If you have questions about the brand name version of ofloxacin, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
How does ofloxacin work? And how long does it take to start working?
Ofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It works by stopping bacteria from multiplying and growing. It also works to directly kill bacteria.
Ofloxacin begins working with your first dose. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information on approximately how long it may take ofloxacin to treat your infection.
If you have questions about how ofloxacin works, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Interactions and warnings for ofloxacin
Below you’ll find information about ofloxacin’s possible interactions and warnings.
Interactions of ofloxacin
For some medications, certain things may affect how the drug works. These include getting vaccines, consuming alcohol or certain foods, or taking the drug with other medications. This effect is called a drug interaction.
Before you use ofloxacin, ask your doctor to check for possible interactions. Be sure to tell them about any of the following you take or use:
- prescription medications
- over-the-counter medications
- vitamins, herbs, or supplements
To learn about drug-condition interactions, see the “Warnings for ofloxacin” section below.
Warnings for ofloxacin
Some people should not use ofloxacin, and others should use it cautiously.
Boxed warnings
Ofloxacin oral tablet has boxed warnings about the following risks. Boxed warnings are serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
To learn more about these warnings, read below. You can also talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Risk of worsening myasthenia gravis. People with myasthenia gravis can have their condition worsened if they take ofloxacin oral tablets.
Myasthenia gravis is a condition that causes weakness in your muscles. This includes the muscles that you use to breathe. Symptoms of myasthenia gravis may include weakness, trouble talking or breathing, and fatigue (low energy).
Due to this risk, doctors will usually avoid prescribing ofloxacin oral tablets to people with myasthenia gravis.
Risk of serious side effects such as tendon problems, nerve problems, and central nervous system problems. Serious but rare side effects are possible with ofloxacin oral tablets. These side effects can include:
- Tendon problems, including tendon rupture. Symptoms may include sudden, excruciating pain in your Achilles tendon.
- Nerve problems, including nerve damage. Symptoms may include burning, numbness, or tingling sensations in your arms or legs.
- Central nervous system problems, including seizures, hallucinations, and increased pressure in your head. (The central nervous system is made up of your brain and spinal cord.) Symptoms may vary depending on the side effect experienced.
If you experience symptoms of these effects, tell your doctor immediately. They’ll likely recommend stopping ofloxacin and can recommend treatment options for your symptoms based on the side effect you experience.
Other warnings
Ofloxacin could cause harm to people with certain health conditions. This effect is called a drug-condition interaction. Other factors can also affect whether ofloxacin is a safe option for you. These warnings may differ based on the form of ofloxacin you take.
Ask your doctor about specific warnings for ofloxacin, and be sure to tell your doctor about your:
- current health, including any allergies to medications
- past health conditions or surgeries
Allergic reaction
Ofloxacin can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible.
If you’ve had an allergic reaction to ofloxacin or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe ofloxacin. They can tell you about medications that are safer options for you.
A mild allergic reaction may cause the following symptoms:
A severe allergic reaction may cause the following symptoms:
- swelling under your skin, usually in your hands, feet, eyelids, or lips
- swelling of your mouth, throat, or tongue, which can cause breathing problems
If you have an allergic reaction to ofloxacin, call your doctor right away. If you have severe symptoms, call 911 or a local emergency number.
Pregnancy or breastfeeding and ofloxacin
Information about ofloxacin and pregnancy and breastfeeding are described below.
Ofloxacin and pregnancy
There are risks to taking ofloxacin oral tablets during pregnancy. But there are also risks with having untreated bacterial infections while pregnant. (Keep in mind that ofloxacin is used for treating certain bacterial infections.)
If you’re planning a pregnancy or can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about bacterial infection treatment options during pregnancy. Together, you can discuss the risks and benefits of your treatment options and decide whether you should take ofloxacin oral tablets during pregnancy.
Ofloxacin ear drops and eye drops may be safe to use while pregnant. If you’re planning a pregnancy or can become pregnant, talk with your doctor before using ofloxacin ear drops or eye drops.
Ofloxacin and breastfeeding
Ofloxacin oral tablets should not be used while breastfeeding. If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before using this medication. Your doctor may recommend other ways to feed your child during treatment with ofloxacin.
Ofloxacin ear drops and eye drops may be safe to use while breastfeeding. If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before using ofloxacin ear drops or eye drops.
Ofloxacin coupon
You may be able to save money on your prescription for ofloxacin by using our Perks discount coupons. They can be found at the end of this article.
If you have questions about how to pay for ofloxacin, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Note: Optum Perks coupons cannot be used with insurance copays or benefits.
What to ask your doctor
This article describes ofloxacin’s uses and dosage, ways to save on cost, and more. Let your doctor know if you have questions about ofloxacin or would like more details about it.
Here’s a list of some possible questions you may want to ask your doctor:
- How does ofloxacin compare to other treatments for my infection?
- If I have side effects from ofloxacin oral tablet, can my doctor prescribe a lower dose for me?
- Does my health history raise my risk for side effects if I take ofloxacin?
- How long will it take for ofloxacin to treat my infection?
Article resources
- Ofloxacin – ofloxacin solution/ drops. (2023). https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/d97651cc-d9ea-4be4-8ea1-3d0278582dd5/spl-doc
- Ofloxacin – ofloxacin solution. (2023). https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/2e912ed6-51e8-40c3-bf10-2af092c63be8/spl-doc
- Ofloxacin – ofloxacin tablet, film coated. (2022). https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/c677b35c-0432-4ee5-af57-1f95449c48b6/spl-doc
- Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Orange Book: Approved drug products with therapeutic equivalence evaluations. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/ob/index.cfm
Disclaimer: Optum Perks has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
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