Ofloxacin

About ofloxacin

Ofloxacin works by preventing the growth of the bacteria causing the infection. This results in bacterial cell death.

Before taking ofloxacin

Before taking ofloxacin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you have diabetes.
• If you have a history of tendon problems such as tendinitis.
• If you have ever experienced tendon problems after taking any other quinolone antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, nalidixic acid or norfloxacin).
• If you suffer with epilepsy or any other condition that causes convulsions (fits).
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (muscle weakening disease).
• If you have ever suffered from mental health problems.
• If you have glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency or if you have a family history of this condition.
• If you are under 18 years of age.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take ofloxacin

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer’s printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Take ofloxacin at regularly spaced intervals.
• You must complete the course of ofloxacin, even if you begin to feel better. Stopping early may allow the infection to come back.
• Ofloxacin tablets must be swallowed whole, not chewed, with a full glass of water.
• Try to take ofloxacin at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Ofloxacin can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. Alcohol will increase any feelings of drowsiness.
• Do not take indigestion remedies, or any medicines containing iron or zinc, at the same time as this medicine. Take any such remedies at least two hours before or two hours after a dose of ofloxacin tablets.
• If you have diabetes check your blood sugar levels regularly.
• Ofloxacin may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it is usually. Avoid the sun and sun beds and use a sun protection cream higher than factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can ofloxacin cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store ofloxacin

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines