Indications
Besifloxacin is an antibiotic eye drop (ophthalmic suspension) used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis, an infection of the clear lining of the eye that causes redness, sticky discharge and irritation.
How It Works
Besifloxacin belongs to the fluoroquinolone group of antibiotics. It blocks two bacterial enzymes, DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, which bacteria need to copy their genetic material. Without them the bacteria cannot multiply and die.
Dosage and Administration
For adults and children aged 1 year and older: 1 drop into the affected eye 3 times a day, 4 to 12 hours apart, for 7 days, or as prescribed. Shake the bottle well before each use. Wash your hands, do not touch the dropper tip to the eye or any surface, and complete the full course even if the eye looks better.
Interactions
No important interactions are expected, as very little of the medicine reaches the bloodstream. If you use other eye drops or ointments, wait at least 5 minutes between them and use ointments last.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Besifloxacin, other fluoroquinolones such as Ciprofloxacin, Moxifloxacin or Levofloxacin, or any ingredient in the drops.
Side Effects
- Redness of the eye or eyelid
- Blurred vision for a short time after using the drops
- Eye pain, irritation or itching
- Headache
Get urgent medical help if you have swelling of the eyelids, face or throat, hives, difficulty breathing, severe eye pain, or if vision gets worse.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Very little of the medicine is absorbed into the body, but there is limited information in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use only if a doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
For use in the eye only; do not inject or swallow. Do not wear contact lenses while you have signs of eye infection. Long use may allow resistant bacteria or fungi to grow; see your doctor if the eye does not improve within a few days. Your vision may be blurred briefly after use, so wait until it clears before driving.
Overdose
If too many drops go into the eye, rinse it with clean water. Accidental swallowing of a small amount is unlikely to cause harm; contact a doctor if a child swallows the contents.
Therapeutic Class
Ophthalmic antibiotic, fluoroquinolone.
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the bottle tightly closed and discard it once the course is finished or 4 weeks after opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.