Floxin (Ofloxacin) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Floxin

Pneumonia »

Pneumonia facts

Pneumonia is a lung infection that can be caused by different types of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Symptoms of pneumonia include cough with sputum production, fever, and sharp chest pain on inspiration (breathing in).
Pneumonia is suspected when a doctor hears abnormal sounds in the chest, and the diagnosis is confirmed by a chest X-ray.
Bacteria causing pneumonia can be identified by sputum culture.
A pleural effusion is a fluid collection around the inflamed lung.
Bacterial and fungal (but not viral) pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics.

What is pneumonia?

Pneumonia is an infection of one or both lungs which is usually caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Prior to the discovery of antibiotics, one-third of all people who developed pneumonia subsequently died fro...

Read the Pneumonia article »

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Floxin Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

OFLOXACIN - ORAL

(oh-FLOX-uh-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Floxin

WARNING: This medication may rarely cause tendon damage (e.g., tendinitis, tendon rupture) during or after treatment. Your risk for tendon problems is greater if you are over 60 years of age, if you are taking corticosteroids (such as prednisone), or if you have had a kidney, heart or lung transplant. Stop exercising, rest, and seek immediate medical attention if you develop joint/muscle/tendon pain or swelling.

Ofloxacin should not be used in patients with myasthenia gravis. It may cause the condition to become worse. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop muscle weakness or trouble breathing.

USES: This medication is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Ofloxacin belongs to a class of drugs called quinolone antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

This antibiotic treats only bacterial infections. It will not work for viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking ofloxacin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually twice a day (in the morning and evening), or as directed by your doctor.

Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Take this medication 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking any medications containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium. Some examples include quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), vitamins/minerals, and antacids. Sucralfate, bismuth subsalicylate, iron, and zinc are also included. These medications bind with ofloxacin preventing its full absorption.

Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals.

Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.