GENERIC NAME: CIPROFLOXACIN - OPHTHALMIC OINTMENT (sip-row-FLOX-uh-sin)
BRAND NAME(S): Ciloxan
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat eye infections. Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic (quinolone-type) that works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medication only treats bacterial eye infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
HOW TO USE: Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer's directions and check with your doctor before using them. Apply eye ointment to the affected eye(s) as follows: Wash hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the tube tip or let it touch your eye. Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down your lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place 1/2 inch of ointment into the pouch by squeezing the tube gently. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Roll your eyeball in all directions to spread the medication. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed. Apply as often as directed by your doctor. Wipe the tip of the ointment tube with a clean tissue to remove excess medication before recapping it. If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or other ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Continue using it for the full time prescribed even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may temporarily sting or burn your eyes for a minute or two when applied. Blurred vision, eye discomfort, itching, redness, tearing, dry eyes, feeling as if something is in your eye, a bad taste in your mouth, or sensitivity to light may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. White crystals may appear in the treated eye(s) after the first few days of ciprofloxacin use, but usually go away in a few weeks. This effect is harmless. Keep your scheduled appointments so your doctor can closely monitor your eye infection. If you notice any new or worsening eye symptoms (e.g., increased discharge, eye pain), tell your doctor immediately. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a new fungal eye infection. Do not use it for longer than prescribed. Contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening symptoms. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: staining of the eyes, swelling in or around the eye, eye pain, worsening vision. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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