Ofloxacin, Ophthalmic

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: fluoroquinolone antibiotic

Generic and brand names: ofloxacin, ophthalmic; Ocuflox

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine, in the form of eyedrops or eye ointment, is used to treat infections of the eye.

How do I use it?

Use this medicine exactly as directed by your health care provider. Do not use more of it or use it longer than directed. Do not stop using this medicine unless your health care provider approves. Stopping too soon may cause the infection to return.

If you have the eyedrops:

Wash your hands before putting this medicine in your eyes. Tilt your head back and gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a pouch. Look up, hold the dropper directly above your eye, and squeeze a drop of the medicine into the pouch. Close your eyes for a minute or two and with a fingertip press gently on the inside corner of your eye to keep the medicine from draining out.

To keep from contaminating the medicine, do not let the tip of the dropper touch your eye or any other surface. Do not rinse the dropper. Put the cap on tightly. Do not use the medicine if it becomes discolored.

If you have the eye ointment:

Wash your hands before putting medicine in your eyes. Hold the tube of ointment in your hand for a minute or two to warm the medicine so it will flow easily from the tube. When you use the medicine for the first time, squeeze out a little of the medicine and throw it away because it may be dry. Look up, and gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a pouch. Holding the tube directly above your eye, squeeze a 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch ribbon of ointment into the pouch. Close your eyes for a minute or two and roll your eyes in all directions to spread the medicine around. Do not rub your eyes.

To keep from contaminating the medicine, do not touch the tip of the applicator to your eye or any other surface. After use, wipe the tip with a tissue. Put the cap on tightly.

What should I watch out for?

This medicine may blur your vision or cause temporary stinging.

If you have an allergic reaction to this medicine (hives, itching, irritated eyes, tightness in your chest, trouble breathing, rash), get emergency medical help right away.

Some people develop white particles in their eyes when they use this medicine. These particles are not harmful and will go away in a short time. Contact your health care provider if they become bothersome.

Do not use this medicine for other eye infections unless your health care provider approves.

Do not use other medicines in your eyes unless your health care provider approves. If you wear contact lenses, ask your health care provider if you can continue to wear them while you are using this medicine.

Your eyes may become more sensitive to light while you are using this medicine. Wearing dark glasses outside may help.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Life-threatening (Report these to your health care provider right away. If you cannot reach your health care provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat).

Serious (report these to your health care provider right away): Eye itching, burning, or stinging that gets worse; redness, irritation, swelling, impaired vision, or pain that continues or gets worse.

Other: Temporary burning or blurred vision, bad or bitter taste sensation, watery eyes, sensitivity to light.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant drug interactions have been reported for this medicine. However, do not use other medicines, including nonprescription products, in your eyes without your health care provider's approval.

Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, nonprescription, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins) with you. Be sure that you tell all health care providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

How should I store this medicine?

Store this medicine at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.