Oflin

Indications

Ofloxacin is an antibiotic used for bacterial infections. It comes as tablets and as eye and ear drops.

• Tablets: urinary tract and kidney infections, prostate infection, some chest infections, some sexually transmitted infections, and some gut infections such as typhoid, when the doctor decides it is suitable.
• Eye drops: bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis (red, sticky eye) and corneal ulcers.
• Ear drops: outer ear infections and some middle ear infections with a perforated eardrum.

It does not work against colds, flu or other virus infections.

How It Works

Ofloxacin blocks enzymes (DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV) that bacteria need to copy their DNA, so the bacteria cannot multiply and die.

Dosage and Administration

Tablets, adults: usually 200 to 400 mg once or twice a day, depending on the infection, for the number of days the doctor prescribes. People with kidney problems may need a lower dose. Swallow with water, with or without food. Finish the full course even if you feel better. Not usually given to children and teenagers.

Eye drops: usually 1 to 2 drops in the affected eye every 2 to 4 hours for the first 2 days, then four times a day, or as prescribed. Ear drops: use as prescribed. Do not let the dropper tip touch the eye or ear.

Interactions

• Antacids, iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium and Sucralfate reduce absorption of the tablets; take them at least 2 hours apart.
• Warfarin: increased bleeding risk.
• Steroid tablets (such as Prednisolone) increase the risk of tendon damage.
• Medicines for diabetes: blood sugar may go too high or too low.
• Medicines that affect heart rhythm, and painkillers like Ibuprofen (which may raise seizure risk), should be used with care.

Contraindications

• Allergy to ofloxacin or other quinolone antibiotics (such as Ciprofloxacin or Levofloxacin).
• Past tendon problems with a quinolone antibiotic.
• Tablets: epilepsy, children and growing teenagers, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Side Effects

Tablets: nausea, diarrhoea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, trouble sleeping and sensitivity to sunlight. Drops: brief stinging, itching or blurred vision.

Get urgent medical help, and stop the tablets, if you have tendon pain or swelling (especially at the heel), numbness, tingling or burning in the hands or feet, severe or bloody diarrhoea, a fast or irregular heartbeat or fainting, sudden severe pain in the chest, stomach or back, confusion, fits or mood changes, or signs of allergy such as rash, swelling or difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Tablets should not be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Eye and ear drops should be used only if the doctor advises.

Precautions and Warnings

• People over 60, and those taking steroids or who have had a transplant, have a higher risk of tendon damage.
• Avoid strong sunlight and sunbeds during treatment.
• Tell your doctor if you have myasthenia gravis, heart rhythm problems, diabetes, G6PD deficiency, kidney or liver disease, or a history of mental health problems.
• Do not drive if you feel dizzy.
• Do not wear contact lenses while using the eye drops.

Overdose

Overdose of tablets may cause dizziness, confusion, fits and heart rhythm problems. Seek medical help immediately.

Therapeutic Class

Fluoroquinolone antibiotic.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Throw away eye or ear drops 4 weeks after opening.