What it is used for
- Some eye and ear infections (as drops)
- Certain urinary tract infections
- Some respiratory and skin infections
- Certain pelvic and prostate infections
- Specialist use for some infections when other antibiotics are unsuitable
How it works
Ofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It blocks enzymes bacteria need to copy their DNA, stopping them from multiplying. It is available as eye and ear drops as well as tablets; the drops act locally on the infection.
How it is taken
Comes as tablets, eye drops and ear drops. Take or use it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label. For drops, wash your hands and avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or ear. For tablets, drink plenty of fluids. Complete the full course as advised.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Trouble sleeping
- Mild stinging or irritation with the drops
Serious effects — get help
- Tendon pain, swelling or a sudden tendon snap (with tablets)
- New numbness, tingling, weakness or burning pain
- Mood changes, confusion, hallucinations or thoughts of self-harm
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling or breathing difficulty
- An irregular or fast heartbeat or fainting
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Dairy products and supplements with calcium, iron, zinc or magnesium when taking tablets (separate the timing)
- Antacids
- Blood thinners such as warfarin
- Some medicines that affect heart rhythm
- Certain diabetes medicines
Who should take care
- Fluoroquinolone tablets can cause rare but serious tendon, nerve, muscle and mood effects, so they are used cautiously
- Tell your clinician about tendon, nerve or seizure problems
- Usually avoided in pregnancy, breastfeeding and in children when taken by mouth unless specifically advised
- For drops, do not share the bottle and follow hygiene advice
- Use sun protection with tablets as they can increase sun sensitivity