Why is this medication prescribed?

Besivance is an ophthalmic antibiotic solution primarily prescribed to treat bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) and blepharitis. It contains the active ingredient besifloxacin, which works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause eye infections.

How should this medicine be used?

When using Besivance, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Typically, the recommended dosage is one drop in the affected eye(s) three times a day for seven days. Wash your hands before administering the eye drops and avoid touching the tip of the dropper to prevent contamination.

Here’s a general guide on how to use Besivance:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Shake the Besivance bottle well to ensure the medication is properly mixed.
• Tilt your head back or lie down and look up.
• Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
• Hold the dropper above the eye, without touching it, and squeeze a drop into the pocket formed by the lower eyelid.
• Close your eyes gently for a minute or two to allow the medication to spread evenly across the eye.
• If you are using drops in both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye.
• Recap the bottle tightly after each use.

It’s essential to complete the full course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Stopping treatment too soon may allow the infection to return or worsen.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Besivance and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. Also, avoid using other eye medications unless instructed by your doctor.

If you experience any adverse reactions or if your condition worsens while using Besivance, contact your doctor promptl

Other uses for this medicine

Besivance is primarily indicated for the treatment of bacterial eye infections, specifically conjunctivitis (pink eye) and blepharitis. However, there are no significant alternative uses for Besivance beyond its intended purpose as an ophthalmic antibiotic solution.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using Besivance, here are some important considerations:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to besifloxacin or other ingredients in Besivance. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Besivance. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them to avoid potential interactions between the medication and the lenses.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Besivance. While there is limited data on the use of besifloxacin during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks.
• Other Eye Medications: Avoid using other eye medications simultaneously with Besivance unless directed by your doctor. Using multiple eye medications concurrently may interfere with the effectiveness of Besivance or cause adverse reactions.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Besivance may cause temporary blurred vision or other visual disturbances after administration. Avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has cleared.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions, especially if you have a history of eye problems or if you are currently undergoing treatment for other eye conditions.
• Adverse Reactions: Be vigilant for any adverse reactions while using Besivance. If you experience severe eye pain, swelling, redness, or changes in vision, discontinue use and consult your doctor immediately.
• Proper Storage: Store Besivance at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and dosage recommendations when using Besivance, and do not use it for purposes other than those prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns or questions about using Besivance, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Besivance. However, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet to support overall eye health and recovery from the eye infection being treated. Ensure you stay hydrated and consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Besivance, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you’re unsure about what to do, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. It’s crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed to effectively treat the eye infection and prevent recurrence.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Besivance, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects of Besivance may include:

• Eye Irritation: This may manifest as burning, stinging, itching, or redness in the eye where the medication is applied.
• Blurred Vision: Some individuals may experience temporary blurred vision after using Besivance.
• Eye Discomfort: Sensation of something in the eye, gritty feeling, or discomfort may occur.
• Dry Eye: Besivance may temporarily exacerbate dry eye symptoms in some individuals.
• Taste Changes: Some people may notice a temporary change in taste shortly after using Besivance due to the medication draining into the back of the throat.
• Eye Allergic Reactions: Rarely, allergic reactions to Besivance may occur, resulting in symptoms such as swelling, itching, rash, or difficulty breathing.

It’s essential to note that these side effects are typically mild and transient, resolving on their own without the need for medical intervention. However, if any side effects persist or worsen, or if you experience severe reactions such as severe eye pain, vision changes, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention promptly.

If you have concerns about side effects or experience any unusual symptoms while using Besivance, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist. They can provide guidance and advice tailored to your individual situation.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of Besivance:

Storage:

• Store Besivance at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination.
• Do not freeze Besivance.
• Keep Besivance out of the reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Besivance properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
• Do not flush Besivance down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so.
• Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority for guidance on how to dispose of Besivance safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you or someone else has ingested Besivance or if it has been applied excessively to the eye(s), contact emergency services or a poison control center immediately.
• Be prepared to provide information such as the amount of medication ingested or applied, the time of ingestion or application, and any symptoms experienced.
• Follow the advice provided by medical professionals or poison control specialists.

What other information should I know?

• Use Besivance exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use more or less of it or use it more frequently than prescribed.
• Complete the full course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
• Do not share Besivance with others, even if they have similar symptoms, as it may not be appropriate for their condition.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Besivance, including its use, side effects, or storage, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

By following these guidelines for storage, disposal, and emergency situations, you can use Besivance safely and effectively for the treatment of your eye infection.