What is ofloxacin? How does it work?
Ofloxacin is an antibiotic that is used to treatbacterial infections. It belongs to the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics which includeslevofloxacin(Levaquin),ciprofloxacin(Cipro),gatifloxacin(Tequin),norfloxacin(Noroxin),moxifloxacin(Avelox), trovafloxacin (Trovan) and others. Ofloxacin stops the multiplication of bacteria by inhibiting the reproduction and repair of their genetic material (DNA). The FDA approved ofloxacin in December 1990.
Ofloxacin is available in generic form. You need a prescription from a doctor for ofloxican.
What is ofloxacin used for?
Ofloxacin is used for the treatment of bacterial infections that cause:
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Skin infections
- Urinary tract infections(UTIs)
- Prostate infections
What are the side effects of ofloxacin?
The most common side effects of ofloxacin include:
Allergicreactions have been described, such ashivesandanaphylaxis(shock).
Other important side effects include symptoms of nervous system stimulation, such as:
- anxiety,
- euphoria, and
- hallucinations.
Ofloxacin may cause low orhigh blood sugarlevels especially in people withdiabeteswho are takinginsulinor oralhypoglycemicdrugs.
病人服用皮肤sensiti氧氟沙星可以开发vity (photsensitivity) to direct sunlight and should avoid exposure to sunlight or usesun protection和防晒霜。
Ofloxacin as well as other antibiotics in the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics, has been associated with tendinitis and even rupture of tendons, particularly the Achilles tendon. Some physicians recommend that patients discontinue vigorousexercisewhile they are taking fluoroquinolone antibiotics.
Ofloxacin should be used with caution in patients with central nervous system diseases such asseizuresbecause rareseizureshave been reported in patients receiving this medication.
Ofloxacin should be avoided in children and adolescents under 18 years of age, as safe use in these patients have not been established.
Many antibiotics, including ofloxacin, can alter the normal bacteria in the colon and encourage overgrowth of a bacterium responsible for the development of inflammation of the colon (Clostridium difficile, pseudomembranouscolitis). Pseudomembranous colitis can causefever,abdominal pain,diarrhea, and sometimes even shock.
Ofloxacin should not be used in patients withmyasthenia gravisbecause it can increase muscleweakness.
What is the dosage for ofloxacin?
- The usual dose for patients with normal renal function is 200 to 400 mg every 12 hours.
- Dosages require adjustment in patients with severely abnormalliveror kidney function.
- Oflaxacin is available as tablets: 200, 300, and 400mg.
- Ofloxacin should be stored in a closed container at 15 C - 30 C (59 F - 86 F).
SLIDESHOW
See SlideshowWhich drugs or supplements interact with ofloxacin?
Ofloxacin reduces the elimination oftheophylline, elevating blood levels of theophylline. (Theophylline is used to open airways in the treatment ofasthma.) If concurrent use of ofloxacin and theophylline cannot be avoided, frequent blood tests to monitor theophylline blood levels should be performed. Ofloxacin can enhance the action of theanticoagulant(blood thinner)warfarin(Coumadin), and increase the risk of bleeding. Both high and低血糖levels have been reported, especially in patients withdiabeteswho were also receiving insulin or other medications used to lower the bloodsugar. Careful monitoring of bloodsugarlevels is recommended.Sucralfate(Carafate), iron,multivitaminscontaining zinc,didanosine(Videx), as well as antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum should not be taken within two hours before or after taking ofloxacin.
Is ofloxacin safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Ofloxacin should be avoided duringpregnancybecause it is secreted inbreast milkand can cause adverse events in the infant.
Ofloxacin should be avoided innursingmothers, as safe use has not been established.
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Summary
Ofloxacin (Floxin Discontinued Brand) is a medication prescribed for the treatment of pneumonia, bronchitis, staph infections, STDs (gonorrhea, chlamydia), urinary tract infections, and prostate infections caused byE. coli. Side effects, drug interactions, and pregnancy information should be reviewed prior to taking this medication.
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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit theFDA MedWatchwebsite or call 1-800-FDA-1088.