Ciprodex Ophthalmic Solution is a prescription medication combining ciprofloxacin, a potent fluoroquinolone antibiotic, with dexamethasone, a powerful corticosteroid. This synergistic formulation is specifically engineered to treat bacterial infections of the eye accompanied by significant inflammation. It is indicated for conditions such as bacterial conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers, providing both antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action in a single, convenient solution. Trusted by ophthalmologists, it targets the root cause of infection while rapidly alleviating discomfort, redness, and swelling.

Features

• Contains 0.3% ciprofloxacin hydrochloride and 0.1% dexamethasone
• Preserved, sterile isotonic suspension
• pH-balanced formulation for ocular comfort
• Available in 2.5 mL, 5 mL, and 10 mL dropper bottles
• White to off-white homogeneous suspension

Benefits

• Eradicates a broad spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative ocular pathogens
• Rapidly reduces inflammation, pain, and photophobia
• Minimizes risk of corneal scarring and visual impairment
• Convenient twice-daily dosing supports patient adherence
• Clinically proven to achieve higher bacterial eradication rates than antibiotic monotherapy
• Helps restore comfort and visual function more quickly

Common use

Ciprodex Ophthalmic Solution is primarily prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections of the anterior segment of the eye, where inflammation is a significant component. Its most frequent applications include bacterial conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and corneal ulcers of bacterial origin. It is also used perioperatively in ocular surgery to prevent infection and control postoperative inflammation. The combination makes it particularly valuable in cases where substantial inflammatory response accompanies the infection, such as in severe bacterial keratitis.

Dosage and direction

The typical dosage for Ciprodex Ophthalmic Solution is one to two drops instilled into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) every 6 to 8 hours (approximately two to three times daily). For the first 24 to 48 hours, dosing frequency may be increased to every 2 to 4 hours, based on severity, as directed by the prescribing physician. Treatment should generally continue for 7 to 14 days, even if symptoms improve earlier, to ensure complete eradication of bacteria and control of inflammation. Patients should be instructed to shake the bottle well before each use and avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface to prevent contamination.

Precautions

Patients should be advised to discontinue use and contact their healthcare provider immediately if signs of allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, or swelling, occur. Use of corticosteroids may mask or enhance the spread of existing infection; therefore, close monitoring is essential. Prolonged use may result in ocular hypertension, glaucoma, optic nerve damage, or posterior subcapsular cataract formation. Fungal infections of the cornea are particularly prone to develop coincidentally with long-term steroid application. Contact lens wear should be avoided during treatment. Not for injection or use in the ear unless specifically indicated.

Contraindications

Ciprodex Ophthalmic Solution is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to ciprofloxacin, other quinolones, dexamethasone, or any component of the formulation. It is also contraindicated in most viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva, including epithelial herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic keratitis), vaccinia, and varicella. Mycobacterial or fungal infections of the eye constitute another contraindication. Use is not recommended in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to other corticosteroids.

Possible side effect

Common side effects include transient ocular burning, stinging, or discomfort upon instillation; conjunctival hyperemia; blurred vision; foreign body sensation; and itching. Less frequently reported effects include corneal deposits, eyelid edema, ocular dryness, eye pain, photophobia, and taste disturbance following nasolacrimal duct drainage. Rare but serious side effects may include superinfection, corneal perforation (particularly in patients with thin corneas), and anaphylactic reactions. Corticosteroid component may increase intraocular pressure in susceptible individuals.

Drug interaction

Although systemic absorption is low, potential interactions exist. Concurrent use with other ocular corticosteroids may increase the risk of steroid-related side effects. Oral anticoagulants may theoretically interact, though clinical significance is minimal. Other ophthalmic solutions should be administered at least 5 minutes apart to avoid dilution or interaction. Quinoline antibiotics may enhance the effects of warfarin and other anticoagulants. Patients using any other prescription or nonprescription eye medicines should inform their physician.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Consistency in application is important for therapeutic efficacy, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact overall treatment outcome if the regular schedule is promptly resumed.

Overdose

Ocular overdose is unlikely to produce serious systemic effects due to limited absorption. However, excessive application may lead to increased ocular discomfort, conjunctival hyperemia, or transient blurred vision. The eye should be rinsed gently with warm water if excessive solution is applied. Accidental oral ingestion, while unlikely, could lead to systemic effects similar to oral ciprofloxacin or steroid overdose; medical attention should be sought if large volumes are consumed. There is no specific antidote; treatment would be supportive and symptomatic.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature, 15°–30°C (59°–86°F). Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Protect from light. Once opened, the solution should be used within 28 days; discard any remaining medication after this period. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use if the solution changes color or becomes cloudy, or if particles appear.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Individual patient responses may vary.

Reviews

Clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance indicate high physician satisfaction with Ciprodex Ophthalmic Solution, particularly noting its efficacy in resolving severe bacterial infections with significant inflammatory components. Patients frequently report rapid relief from pain and redness, with many noting improvement within 24–48 hours of initiation. Some users mention transient stinging upon application, but most describe this as mild and tolerable given the therapeutic benefits. Ophthalmologists appreciate the combination therapy for reducing treatment complexity and improving compliance compared to separate antibiotic and steroid regimens.