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Generic Name
Ofloxacin
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| open 500 mg tablet | ৳ 5.50 | ৳ 55.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Ofloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections including those of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, soft tissue, and sexually transmitted diseases.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical dosage is 200-400 mg every 12 hours, or 500 mg once daily, depending on the severity and type of infection. Treatment duration varies from 3 to 14 days.
Elderly
Dosage adjustment may be required based on renal function. Monitor for adverse effects due to potential decreased renal clearance.
Renal_impairment
Reduced dosage recommended for creatinine clearance <50 mL/min. For CrCl 20-50 mL/min, 200 mg every 24 hours. For CrCl <20 mL/min, 200 mg every 48 hours.
How to Take
Take orally with or without food. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent crystalluria. Do not take with antacids, iron supplements, or dairy products; separate by at least 2 hours.
Mechanism of Action
Ofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination, leading to bacterial cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Varies by infection type and severity; clinical improvement generally seen within 2-3 days.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine (70-80%) via glomerular filtration and tubular secretion. Small amounts are excreted in feces.
Half life
Approximately 5-8 hours in individuals with normal renal function.
Absorption
Rapid and well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Bioavailability is approximately 90-100%. Peak plasma concentrations achieved within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized in the liver (less than 10%); main metabolites are desmethyl ofloxacin and ofloxacin N-oxide.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ofloxacin or other quinolone antibiotics
- History of tendinitis or tendon rupture associated with fluoroquinolone use
- Children and adolescents (under 18 years) due to risk of cartilage damage
- Epilepsy or other seizure disorders (use with caution and only if benefits outweigh risks)
Drug Interactions
NSAIDs
Concomitant administration with NSAIDs may increase the risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures.
Warfarin
Ofloxacin may enhance the anticoagulant effects of warfarin, requiring INR monitoring and potential dose adjustment.
Theophylline
Concomitant use may increase plasma concentrations of theophylline, leading to increased risk of theophylline-related adverse reactions.
Corticosteroids
Increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture, especially in elderly patients.
Antacids (containing magnesium, aluminum), Iron, Zinc, Sucralfate
These agents can chelate ofloxacin, reducing its absorption. Administer ofloxacin at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after these drugs.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not freeze.
Overdose
In case of overdose, gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be used. Symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated. Maintain adequate hydration. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis is not effective in removing ofloxacin.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential effects on fetal/infant cartilage development. Ofloxacin is excreted in breast milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from the date of manufacture when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of ofloxacin in treating a wide range of bacterial infections across various patient populations.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (BUN, creatinine) in elderly or renally impaired patients
- Blood glucose in diabetic patients due to risk of dysglycemia (hypo- or hyperglycemia)
- Liver function tests (ALT, AST) if signs of liver dysfunction appear
- INR in patients on concomitant warfarin therapy
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients thoroughly on the black box warning risks, especially tendinitis/rupture, peripheral neuropathy, and CNS effects. Instruct them to seek immediate medical attention for any related symptoms.
- Monitor renal function, especially in elderly or renally impaired patients, and adjust dosage accordingly.
- Be aware of potential interactions with antacids, iron, warfarin, and theophylline.
- Advise patients about photosensitivity and the need for sun protection.
- Consider alternative antibiotics in patients with a history of myasthenia gravis or uncontrolled seizure disorders.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent resistance and recurrence.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure or artificial UV light, as ofloxacin can cause photosensitivity. Use sunscreen and protective clothing.
- Report any new or worsening tendon pain, swelling, numbness, tingling, or weakness immediately to your doctor.
- Do not take this medicine with antacids, iron or zinc supplements, or dairy products. Separate by at least 2 hours.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water during treatment.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Ofloxacin may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or visual disturbances. Patients should be cautioned about driving or operating machinery until they know how the drug affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent reinfection.
- Avoid alcohol as it may exacerbate some side effects like dizziness.
- Consider probiotics to help mitigate antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.