Besifloxacin

Introduction

Besifloxacin is an antibiotic belonging to the class of fluoroquinolone. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes, nose, and throat.

Uses

Besifloxacin is used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis, bacterial keratitis, bacterial rhinitis, and bacterial pharyngitis.

Brand Name	Besifloxacin
Type
Weight
Generic	Besifloxacin
Manufacturer
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Besifloxacin exerts its antimicrobial action by inhibiting the enzymes, DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, which are essential for the bacterial DNA replication, transcription, and repair. This results in the inhibition of the growth and multiplication of the bacteria.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Besifloxacin may start to work within 24 hours of administration. A full course of therapy, as prescribed by the doctor, is necessary for the complete resolution of the infection.

Absorption

The bioavailability of Besifloxacin is approximately 77%. It is rapidly absorbed from the ocular surface and is present in the ocular tissues for up to 12 hours.

Route of Elimination

Besifloxacin is eliminated through the kidneys by glomerular filtration.

Dosage

Adults and children (1 year of age and older): Instill one drop in the affected eye(s) 3 times a day for 7 days.

Pediatric Use: The safety and effectiveness of Besifloxacin in infants below one year of age have not been established. The efficacy of Besifloxacin in treating bacterial conjunctivitis in pediatric patients one year or older has been demonstrated in controlled clinical trials.

Geriatric Use: No overall differences in safety and effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger patients.

The recommended dosage of Besifloxacin is as follows:

Conjunctivitis: 1 drop of 0.6% Besifloxacin ophthalmic solution administered 3 times daily into the affected eye(s).
Keratitis: 1 drop of 0.6% Besifloxacin ophthalmic solution administered 4-5 times daily into the affected eye(s).
Rhinitis and Pharyngitis: 500 mg of Besifloxacin oral suspension administered twice daily for 5-7 days.

Administration

Besifloxacin is available in two forms: ophthalmic solution and oral suspension. The ophthalmic solution is used for ocular infections and the oral suspension is used for respiratory infections.

Side Effects

The common side effects of Besifloxacin include eye irritation, headache, dizziness, and nausea. Other rare side effects include allergic reactions, palpitations, tachycardia, and gastrointestinal upset.

Toxicity

Besifloxacin has low toxicity and most of the side effects are mild and reversible. In case of severe side effects, the medication should be discontinued and the patient should seek medical help.

Precautions

Besifloxacin should be used with caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to quinolones. It should be avoided in patients with a history of myasthenia gravis due to the risk of worsening of the symptoms. It should be used with caution in patients with a history of epilepsy or other seizure disorders, as it may increase the frequency of seizures.

Interaction

Besifloxacin has the potential to interact with other medications. It should not be used in combination with any other quinolones or antacids containing magnesium, aluminum, or iron, as it may decrease its absorption. It should also be used with caution in combination with other medications such as anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, immunosuppressants, and antidiabetics.

Disease Interactions

Besifloxacin should be used with caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to quinolones, myasthenia gravis, epilepsy, and other seizure disorders, kidney or liver disease, and diabetes.

Drug Interactions

Besifloxacin should not be used in combination with other quinolones or antacids containing magnesium, aluminum, or iron, as it may decrease its absorption. It should also not be used in combination with anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, immunosuppressants, and antidiabetics.

Food Interactions

Besifloxacin should be taken at least two hours before or six hours after the consumption of food, dairy products, antacids, vitamins, and iron supplements to reduce the risk of interaction.

Pregnancy Use

Besifloxacin should not be used during pregnancy, unless absolutely necessary. It is not known if it is safe for use during breastfeeding.

Lactation Use

Besifloxacin should not be used during breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.

Acute Overdose

In cases of accidental overdose, supportive measures such as gastric lavage and symptomatic management should be given. The patient should be closely monitored for signs of toxicity and side effects.

Contraindication

Besifloxacin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to quinolones, myasthenia gravis, epilepsy, and other seizure disorders.

Use Direction

Besifloxacin should be administered exactly as prescribed by the doctor. The medication should be used at regular intervals and for the full duration of the prescribed therapy. Dosage should not be increased without consulting the doctor.

Storage Condition

Besifloxacin should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place. The ophthalmic solution should be kept in its original container and should not be exposed to direct sunlight or heat.