Floxin

Various bacterial infections can be treated with Floxin, which comes in tablet form and is generally taken by mouth twice a day. As a fluoroquinolone, the medication works by interfering with enzymes necessary for bacteria to multiply. Most people have no problems with it; however, side effects are possible. Commonly reported ones include nausea, diarrhea, headache, and vomiting.

What Is Floxin?

Floxin® (ofloxacin) is a prescription antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections. It belongs to a group of medications called fluoroquinolones, or "quinolones" for short. The drug is available as a tablet.
 
This article refers only to the tablet formulation of Floxin. The active ingredient in Floxin, ofloxacin, is available as an ear drop medication under the name Floxin® Otic (ofloxacin otic solution) and as an eye drop under the name Ocuflox® (ofloxacin ophthalmic solution).
 
(Click Floxin Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Floxin?

Brand-name Floxin was made by Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc. However, this medication is no longer available as Floxin, although generic versions are available. Generic Floxin is made by various manufacturers, including Teva Pharmaceuticals, Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Dr. Reddy's Labs, Ltd.
 

How Does It Work?

Floxin works by killing certain bacteria that cause infections.
 It does this by interfering with two bacterial enzymes called topoisomerase four (IV) and DNA gyrase. These enzymes are required for bacteria to copy and repair DNA, which are important steps for bacteria to multiply.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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