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Floxin Otic

Generic name: ofloxacin otic [oh-FLOCKS-a-sin-OH-tic]
Drug class: otic anti-infectives

In the U.S., Floxin Otic has been withdrawn. There may be equivalents if generic versions have been approved by the FDA.

What is Floxin Otic?

Floxin is a powerful antibiotic used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Floxin Otic can be used to treat infections in the ear canal in adults and children older than 6 months. Floxin Otic can be used to treat inner ear infections (also known as otitis) in adults and children older than 1 year. Floxin Otic can be used long-term to treat an infection causing a hole (ruptured eardrum) in adults or children over 12 years of age.

Warnings

Floxin Otic should not be used in the mouth or eyes. Floxin Otic is only intended to be used in the ears. The dropper should not be touched, even with the hands or ears. The opening of the dropper is sterile. It could lead to another infection of the ear if it is contaminated. Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication.Inform your healthcare provider of any existing medical conditions, allergies or medicines you are currently taking.

Before you take this drug

Floxin Otic should not be used if you have an allergy to ofloxacin or other similar antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro), gatifloxacin (Tequin), levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin/Maxaquin, moxifloxacin/Avelox, or norfloxacin/Noroxin. Floxin Otic is FDA pregnancy category C. There is no information on whether Floxin will harm a developing baby. If you plan to get pregnant or are already pregnant, tell your doctor. This medicine is not known to pass into breast milk. It is also unknown if this medication could harm a baby who was nursing.Breastfeeding mothers must not take this medication. Do not administer this medicine to an infant without consulting a doctor.

Similar/related drugs

Amoxicillin, Ciprofloxacin otic, Cephalexin, Azthromycin, Augmentin, Ceftriaxone, Amoxicillin/clavulanate

How to take Floxin Otic?

Follow the instructions on your prescription label. Please follow all the instructions on the prescription label. Use this medication only as directed. Please do not exceed the recommended dosage or use for longer than prescribed. Before each use, shake the medication well. Floxin otic drops can be warmed up by holding the bottle for 1 to 2 minutes. Cold ear drops may cause dizziness.

How to use Floxin Otic:

  • If you are lying down, tilt your head so that your ear is facing up. When giving Floxin to a child, gently pull your ear back or pull downward on the earlobe.
  • Drop the correct amount of drops in your ear by holding the dropper upside-down over your ear.
  • For at least five minutes, lie down with your head tipped back. Use a piece of cotton to block the ear canal and prevent the medication from draining.
  • After administering the drops, the doctor might recommend pressing the tragus four to five times with a pumping movement. The drops may be able to pass through tubes and into the middle ear. Please follow the instructions of your doctor.

Avoid touching the tip of the dropper or placing it directly into your ears. It could become contaminated. Do not use soap or water to wash the tip. Instead, wipe it with a tissue. Floxin Otic should be taken for the full duration prescribed. Even though you may feel better quickly, taking missed doses increases the chances of another infection resistant to antibiotics occurring. If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or you experience new symptoms, call your doctor. Store Floxin Otic away from moisture, heat, and light. After your treatment, throw away any remaining medicine.

What happens if I miss the dose?

As soon as you recall, take the missed dose. In case of accidental medication intake, immediately seek emergency medical help by calling the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdoses of this medication are not considered dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical attention. Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

The medicine should only be used in the ears. Avoid getting the medication in your mouth, nose, eyes, or lips. If this medicine has gotten into or on any of these areas, rinse with water.

You should only use this medication unless you have been prescribed it by your doctor.

Side effects of Floxin Otic

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention: hives; rash; itching; slow pulse; fainting; difficulty breathing; slow breathing; swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.

If you experience:

  • Early identification of any skin rash is critical. No matter how mild, its significance should not be overlooked.
  • Ear drainage, discharge, or worsening pain.

Side effects of floxin otics include:

  • Headache;
  • Dizziness;
  • Mild ear pain or itching may occur after using ear drops.

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor.Contact the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report adverse side effects.

Interaction with other drug

Ofloxacin in the ear is unlikely to interact with other drugs that you may take orally or by injection. Many drugs interact. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including vitamins, herbal products, prescriptions, and over-the-counter medicines.