Ofloxacin

Information About Ofloxacin

Uses of Ofloxacin

Ofloxacin is usually used in the treatment of urinary tract infection utis and conjunctivitis.

How Ofloxacin Works

Ofloxacin is an antibiotic that belongs to the group of fluoroquinolone. It works by inhibiting the bacterial topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase that is required for DNA mutation, repair and recombination of a cell. It has a wide range of protection against gram -ve and +ve microorganism.

Side Effects of Ofloxacin

Gastrointestinal disturbances Tendinitis Headache, insomnia, dizziness Peripheral neuropathy Rash Pruritus Vaginal discharge Ocular discomfort Cough Hypersensitive reactions Diarrhea

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Ofloxacin Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Although there is no interaction between Ofloxacin with alcohol, it is better to avoid consuming alcohol while on this medication because of the side effects of gastrointestinal disturbances and hypersensitive reactions.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Precautions should be made when using Ofloxacin especially in the 1st trimester because studies in animals have revealed side effects on the fetus and there are not enough controlled studies in women and animals are not available. It is only to be given with prescription by the doctor after considering the potential benefits justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation Limited Data

Ofloxacin is excreted minimally in the breast milk. However, the use in lactating mothers is acceptable with monitoring of the infant for any possible effects like diarrhea or candidiasis. It is suggested for the mothers to avoid breastfeeding for 4 to 6 hours after taking Ofloxacin.

Driving Not advisable

It is not advisable for the patient to drive while on Ofloxacin as the side effects like headache, dizziness, tendinitis and pruritus may disturb the concentration while driving.

Kidney Use With Care

The dose of Ofloxacin should be reduced and adjusted after the initial dose in patients with kidney problems and should be determined by creatinine clearance or plasma creatinine level.

Liver Limited Data

In patients with liver problems, the clearance of Ofloxacin is reduced so it is recommended that the dose should not exceed 400 mg per day. It also may damage the liver function and causing fulminant hepatitis that is potentially leading to liver failure.