Lox Ophthalmic Solution

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3%

Introduction

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% is a synthetic antibiotic in the fluoroquinolone class used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It is the most commonly prescribed antibiotic in the United States and Canada for skin, respiratory, urinary tract, and abdominal infections.

Uses

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% may be used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, such as: Bronchitis, Skin infections, Sinusitis, Urinary tract infections, Gonorrhea, Typhoid fever, Cholera, Prostatitis, and others.

Mechanism of Action

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase (an enzyme responsible for DNA replication) resulting in cellular death and clearance of bacteria. Additionally, it may interfere with the ability of bacterial cells to synthesize proteins, which is also necessary for survival.

Absorption

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration. Its bioavailability is about 70-80%.

Route of Elimination

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% and its metabolites are eliminated predominantly in the urine, with 80-90% of a dose being accounted for in 24 hours.

Dosage

The dosage of ciprofloxacin varies depending on the condition it is being used to treat. It may be given in either oral or intravenous (IV) forms.

Administration

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% may be administered orally or intravenously. When taken orally, the drug should be taken with a full glass of water, one hour before or two hours after meals.

Side Effects

Nausea
Diarrhea
Headache
Abdominal pain
Rash
Dizziness
Insomnia

Toxicity

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% is generally well tolerated, but like any drug, it can cause side effects. Overdose of ciprofloxacin may cause severe liver damage and neurotoxicity.

Precautions

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% should not be used in patients younger than 18 years of age.
Patients with a history of seizures or CNS disorder should not take ciprofloxacin.
Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% should not be used in pregnant women.
Inform your doctor if you have any liver or kidney condition.

Interactions

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% may interact with other drugs such as antacids, oral contraceptives, theophylline, certain antibiotics, caffeine, probenecid, metoclopramide, warfarin, cyclosporine, and other drugs.
Inform your doctor if you are taking any of the above medications before taking this drug.

Disease Interactions

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% should not be used in patients with a history of epilepsy, seizures or epilepsy-like events.
Patients with a history of tendon problems or kidney, heart or lung transplant should not take this drug.

Drug Interactions

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib
Warfarin
Anticonvulsants such as phenytoin and carbamazepine
Cyclosporine
Corticosteroids
Theophylline

Food Interactions

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% should be taken with food to reduce stomach upset. Iron supplements, antacids, and certain foods can reduce the absorption of ciprofloxacin.

Pregnancy Use

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the unborn baby. It is classified as pregnancy category C.

Lactation Use

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% has not been studied in breastfeeding women and should be avoided in breastfeeding mothers.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of ciprofloxacin overdose may include confusion, drowsiness, vomiting, abdominal pain, nausea, and rapid heart rate. In case of overdose, contact a healthcare provider right away.

Contraindication

Certain conditions may preclude the use of ciprofloxacin. These conditions include: hypersensitivity to the drug, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and a history of tendon rupture or myasthenia gravis.

Use Direction

Lox Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor; do not take it in larger or smaller amounts or for longer or shorter time than prescribed. Additionally, it is important to finish the full course of treatment prescribed, even if your symptoms improve.