Ocuflox
Ocuflox is the brand name for a medication called ofloxacin ophthalmic solution. It is an antibiotic eye drop that is used to treat certain eye infections caused by bacteria.
Ocuflox is primarily used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) and corneal ulcers. It belongs to the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics, which are effective against a wide range of bacteria.
This medication comes in the form of eye drops and is applied directly to the affected eye(s). The specific dosage and duration of treatment will be determined based on the severity of the infection.
Ofloxacin works by inhibiting the enzymes responsible for DNA replication in bacteria, thereby preventing their growth and the spread of infection in the eye.
Uses of Ocuflox
Ocuflox drop is used to treat or prevent infections of eyes that are associated with conjunctivitis as well as corneal ulcers that are caused by certain bacteria.
How to use Ocuflox drops?
The directions for use are:
- Wash your eyes and hands. Tilt the head back. With index finger, pull lower eyelid away from your eye. Now, drop the medicine and close the eyes gently.
- With your finger apply gentle pressure on the inside corner of your eyelid for about 1 to 2 minutes. Do not blink the eye.
- Wipe away excess medicine.
- Do not touch the eye.
- Prevent touching the applicator tip with hands or on any other surface as it will contaminate the medicine.
- Use at the same time everyday for best results.
- Keep away from wearing contact lenses while using Ocuflox drops.
- Use Ocuflox drops for full course for complete removal of infection.
Dosage
Generally, the usual recommended dosage for Ocuflox is applying one to two drops into the affected eye(s) every two to four hours for the first two days. After that, the dosage is typically reduced to one to two drops every four hours.
It's crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if the symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
Contraindication
One must not use Ocuflux in following conditions:
- If allergic to any active ingredient of Ocuflux
- If allergic to fluoroquinolone antibiotics like ciprofloxacin
- It is contraindicated in children under 1 year of age.
To ensure a safe use of Ocuflux, you must tell you doctor beforehand if:
- You take any prescription or nonprescription drugs, dietary supplements or herbal preparations.
- If you are allergic to certain food items, drugs or other substances.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- If you breastfeed a baby.
- These drops may lead to blurred vision. It is advisable to not to drive or do any unsafe task when you cannot see properly.
- Let your doctor know that you use Ocuflox drops before any medical or emergency care or prior to surgery.
- Tell your dentist that you take Ocuflux drops before receiving any dental procedure.
Side Effects of Ocuflux
Ocuflux is associated with some minor as well as serious side-effects: They are:
Minor Side Effects
- Blurred vision
- Discomfort in eyes
- Burning in eyes
- Itching, redness and stinging in eyes
- Eye pain
- Dry eyes
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Sensitivity to foreign body
- Tearing
Serious Side Effects
- Allergic reactions (hives, rashes, swelling on lips, tongue and face, chest tightness and difficulty in breathing).
- Loss of consciousness
- Infection (sore throat, chills or fever)
- Unusual sensitivity to light
- Excessive redness
Warnings
Here are some important warnings associated with the use of Ocuflox (ofloxacin ophthalmic solution):
- Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions can include itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
- Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Ocuflox. You should wait at least 15 minutes after using the medication before reinserting your lenses. Ocuflox may contain ingredients that can discolor soft contact lenses. Avoid wearing contact lenses if you have signs or symptoms of an eye infection.
- Bacterial Resistance: Prolonged or inappropriate use of Ocuflox or other antibiotics may result in the growth of bacteria that are resistant to treatment.
- Use in One Eye Only: Ocuflox is intended for use in the eye(s) only. Avoid ingesting the medication orally or applying it to other parts of the body.
- Eye Irritation: Temporary eye irritation, including burning, stinging, redness, or itching, may occur after using Ocuflox.
- Tendon Inflammation and Rupture: Although rare, the use of systemic fluoroquinolone antibiotics (taken by mouth or by injection) has been associated with tendon inflammation and rupture.
- Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness of Ocuflox in children below the age of one year have not been established. Consult your pediatrician for appropriate treatment options for children.