Health Library

Ofloxacin (Into the eye)

Ofloxacin (oh-FLOX-a-sin)

Treats eye infections. Belongs to a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics.

Brand Name(s):

Ocuflox

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Drop

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• This medicine is not for long-term use.
• Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
• Shake the eye drops well just before each use.
• Lie down or tilt your head back. With your index finger, pull down the lower lid of your eye to form a pocket.
• To use the eye drops: Hold the dropper close to your eye with the other hand. Drop the correct number of drops into the pocket made between your lower lid and eyeball. Gently close your eyes. Place your index finger over the inner corner of your eye for 1 minute. Do not rinse or wipe the dropper or allow it to touch anything, including your eye. Put the cap on the bottle right away. Keep the bottle upright when you are not using it.
• If you wear soft contacts, take them out before putting the drops in your eyes. You may need to wait at least 15 minutes after using the drops before putting in your contacts.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the bottle upright when you are not using it.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Check with your doctor before using any other medicine in your eyes.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have other eye problems.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
• Severe redness, itching, or swelling that was not there before you started using the medicine
• Trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dry eyes
• Eye sensitivity to light
• Feeling as if something is in your eyes
• Mild burning or stinging in the eyes
• Watery eyes or tearing

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024