Precautions and Warnings With Ofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution

It's important to know that some people have developed a serious allergic reaction to ofloxacin ophthalmic solution, signs of which include wheezing and an unexplained rash. In addition, contact lenses should not be worn during treatment. Safety precautions and warnings with ofloxacin ophthalmic solution also apply to people with certain allergies and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to using ofloxacin ophthalmic solution (Ocuflox®) if you have any allergies, including to medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
  • Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
  • Breastfeeding.
     
You should also tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 

Specific Ofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution Warnings and Precautions

Some warnings and precautions to be aware of prior to using ofloxacin ophthalmic solution include the following:
 
  • Ofloxacin ophthalmic solution does not kill all types of organisms that cause eye infections. In rare cases, overgrowth of these nonsusceptible organisms may occur with long-term use of ofloxacin ophthalmic solution, leading to a second infection, such as a fungal infection. If your eye infection seems to worsen, or has not gotten better within a week, talk to your healthcare provider. You may need a different medication.
     
  • Some people may experience a severe allergic reaction from fluoroquinolones such as ofloxacin ophthalmic solution. Stop using this medication and seek immediate medical attention if you develop any signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
     
    • A rash or hives
    • Itching
    • Swelling of the lips, tongue, or face
    • Throat tightness
    • A rapid heartbeat
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing.
     
  • You should not wear contact lenses while you have bacterial conjunctivitis. The use of contact lenses may worsen your infection. Ask your healthcare provider when you can start wearing contacts again.
     
  • Bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis, may spread easily. To help limit the spread of the infection, do not touch the tip of the container to your eye. Also, make sure you wash your hands often while using this medicine, especially after you touch your eyes.
     
  • Ofloxacin ophthalmic solution is unlikely to react with other medications (see Drug Interactions With Ofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution).
     
  • This product is a pregnancy Category C medication, which means that it may not be safe for use during pregnancy, although the full risks are currently unknown (see Ocuflox and Pregnancy for more information).
     
  • It is unknown if ofloxacin ophthalmic solution passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or plan to start, check with your healthcare provider before using this drug (see Ocuflox and Breastfeeding).
     
Precautions and Warnings With Ofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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