Why is this medication prescribed?

Besifloxacin ophthalmic is prescribed to treat bacterial eye infections, including conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other types of bacterial infections in the eye. It belongs to a class of medications known as fluoroquinolone antibiotics, which work by stopping the growth of bacteria.

How should this medicine be used?

Besifloxacin ophthalmic is typically used to treat bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other types of bacterial infections in the eye. It comes in the form of eye drops. Here’s how to use besifloxacin ophthalmic:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Shake the bottle well before using it, if instructed to do so.
• Twist off the cap of the bottle.
• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
• Hold the dropper tip near your eye, but avoid touching it to prevent contamination.
• Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pocket formed by your lower eyelid. If you’re unsure about the number of drops to use, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
• Close your eyes gently for a moment to allow the medication to spread evenly over the surface of your eye.
• If you’re using besifloxacin in both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye.
• Replace the cap on the bottle and screw it on tightly to prevent contamination.
• Wash your hands again to remove any medication residue.

It’s important to use besifloxacin ophthalmic exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the dosage and frequency instructions carefully. Don’t stop using the medication early even if your symptoms improve, unless directed by your doctor. If you have any questions about how to use besifloxacin ophthalmic, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Besifloxacin ophthalmic is primarily used to treat bacterial eye infections, but it may have other off-label uses as determined by your healthcare provider. Off-label use refers to the use of a medication for a purpose other than what it was approved for by regulatory agencies. However, it’s important to note that using medications off-label should only be done under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions when using besifloxacin ophthalmic, here are some important points to consider:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to besifloxacin or other fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Also, let them know about any other allergies you have, including to foods, dyes, preservatives, or other substances.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using besifloxacin ophthalmic with your doctor. It’s essential to weigh the potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant against the benefits of treatment.
• Contact lenses: Remove contact lenses before applying besifloxacin eye drops. You can reinsert them after 15 minutes following the administration of the eye drops. However, discuss with your doctor if you should avoid wearing contact lenses during treatment, as some formulations of eye drops may contain preservatives that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses.
• Eye conditions: Inform your doctor if you have any other eye conditions, such as glaucoma or a history of eye surgery, as besifloxacin ophthalmic may interact with certain medications or exacerbate certain conditions.
• Avoid contamination: To prevent contamination and potential infection, avoid touching the tip of the dropper bottle to any surface, including your eye. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Follow instructions: Use besifloxacin ophthalmic exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Don’t use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed.
• Side effects: Be aware of any potential side effects of besifloxacin ophthalmic, such as eye irritation, redness, itching, or swelling. If you experience any adverse reactions, contact your doctor promptly.
• Other medications: Inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as besifloxacin ophthalmic may interact with certain medications.

Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and advice when using besifloxacin ophthalmic or any other medication. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions are generally not associated with besifloxacin ophthalmic. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet for overall health, which can indirectly support the effectiveness of the medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of besifloxacin ophthalmic, 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 up on doses to make up for a missed one. If you have questions or concerns about missed doses, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Besifloxacin ophthalmic, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Eye irritation
• Redness of the eye
• Eye itching
• Eye discomfort or pain
• Blurred vision
• Eye discharge
• Dry eye
• Foreign body sensation in the eye
• Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Headache

These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if any of these symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience any other unusual or severe side effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

In rare cases, besifloxacin ophthalmic may cause more serious side effects, including allergic reactions such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

This list may not include all possible side effects of besifloxacin ophthalmic. If you have concerns about potential side effects, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information.

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

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

Storage:

• Keep Besifloxacin Ophthalmic eye drops tightly closed in their original container when not in use.
• Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light.
• Do not freeze the medication.
• Keep Besifloxacin Ophthalmic out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Discard any remaining medication after you have completed your prescribed treatment course.
• Do not keep Besifloxacin Ophthalmic eye drops for future use or share them with others.
• Follow your local regulations or guidelines for the proper disposal of unused medications. Do not dispose of medications via household waste or wastewater.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or accidental ingestion of Besifloxacin Ophthalmic, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately. If possible, provide them with information such as the medication name, strength, and the amount ingested.

What other information should I know?

• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and duration of treatment with Besifloxacin Ophthalmic.
• Do not wear contact lenses while using Besifloxacin Ophthalmic unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Inform your doctor about any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, that you are taking, as they may interact with Besifloxacin Ophthalmic.
• If your symptoms do not improve or worsen while using Besifloxacin Ophthalmic, contact your doctor for further evaluation and advice.
• Do not use Besifloxacin Ophthalmic for conditions other than those for which it was prescribed.

Following these guidelines will help ensure the safe and effective use of Besifloxacin Ophthalmic. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification and assistance.