Ofloxacin

• Type: Fluoroquinolone antibiotic

• Main Use: Treats a wide range of bacterial infections affecting the eyes, ears, skin, urinary tract, and other parts of the body.

How It Works

• Ofloxacin blocks bacterial enzymes called DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV.

• These enzymes are essential for bacteria to replicate their DNA and grow.

• By blocking them, Ofloxacin kills bacteria or stops their growth, clearing the infection.

Forms Available

• Eye drops – for eye infections

• Ear drops – for ear infections

• Tablets – for systemic infections (urinary tract, respiratory tract, skin)

• IV injection – for severe infections (hospital use)

Common Uses

Eye/Ear Drop Form:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)

• Corneal ulcers (keratitis)

• Blepharitis (eyelid infection)

• Otitis externa (outer ear infection)

Systemic Form:

• Urinary tract infections

• Respiratory infections (bronchitis, pneumonia)

• Skin and soft tissue infections

• Gastrointestinal infections (e.g., traveler’s diarrhea, typhoid)

Advantages

• Broad-spectrum – effective against many Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria

• Works quickly

• Good tissue penetration, making it effective for deep infections like corneal ulcers

Possible Side Effects

Eye/Ear Form:

• Mild burning or stinging after use

• Temporary blurred vision (eye drops)

• Rare allergic reaction

Systemic Form:

• Nausea, dizziness, headache

• Risk of tendon inflammation or rupture (rare, more common in older adults)

• Can affect heart rhythm (QT prolongation in sensitive individuals)

Precautions

• Use only for bacterial infections — it does not treat viral or fungal infections.

• Complete the full course to prevent antibiotic resistance.

• Avoid touching the tip of the dropper/bottle to keep it sterile.

• Systemic use should be avoided in children, pregnant women, and people with certain tendon or heart conditions unless specifically prescribed.