Floxin Ofloxacin

Floxin (ofloxacin) is a synthetic chemotherapeutic agent of the quinolone class. It is a white to yellowish-white crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water and has a molecular weight of 319.9. The empirical formula for ofloxacin is C18H20FN3O4. Floxin is available as 400 mg tablets for oral administration.

Uses

Floxin is indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible bacteria. The spectrum of activity includes gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of floxin are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. Other common side effects include rash, photosensitivity, and dizziness. Rare side effects include seizures and QT prolongation. Floxin should be used with caution in patients with known or suspected CNS disorders because of the risk of seizures and QT prolongation. Floxin should be used with caution in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to quinolones because of the risk of anaphylaxis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Drug Interactions

Floxin is known to interact with other drugs. The most common drug interactions include antacids, iron, and calcium supplements. Floxin should be used with caution in patients taking other medications that may cause QT prolongation. These drugs include but are not limited to: erythromycin, quinidine, procainamide, disopyramide, and amiodarone.

Dosage and Administration

The usual adult dose of floxin is 400 mg every 12 hours. The total daily dose should not exceed 800 mg. Floxin should be taken with food or milk to minimize stomach upset. Floxin should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment and the dose should be adjusted accordingly. Floxin should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment and the dose should be adjusted accordingly. Floxin should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to quinolones.

Overdose

There is no specific antidote for floxin overdose. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Dialysis is unlikely to be of benefit due to the high protein binding of floxin.

Storage

Floxin should be stored at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F).

Pregnancy and Lactation

Floxin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Floxin is excreted in human milk and should not be used in nursing mothers.

For more information

Please see https://www.drugs.com/floxin.html for more information about floxin.