Floxin (ofloxacin) is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic designed to target and eliminate a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial pathogens. Its mechanism of action involves inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes critical for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. This results in rapid bactericidal activity against susceptible organisms, making it a first-line option for treating complicated and uncomplicated infections across multiple organ systems. Clinicians value Floxin for its reliable pharmacokinetic profile, including excellent tissue penetration and bioavailability, which supports consistent clinical outcomes in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Features

• Contains ofloxacin, a second-generation fluoroquinolone antimicrobial
• Available in 200 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg oral tablet formulations
• Demonstrated activity against E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Rapid absorption with peak serum concentrations achieved within 1–2 hours post-administration
• Approximately 32% serum protein binding and volume of distribution of 1.0–1.5 L/kg, indicating extensive tissue penetration
• Mean elimination half-life of 5–7 hours in adults with normal renal function
• Primarily excreted unchanged in urine (70–80%)

Benefits

• Provides broad-spectrum coverage for polymicrobial and monomicrobial infections
• High bacterial eradication rates in respiratory, urinary, skin, and soft tissue infections
• Convenient twice-daily dosing supports adherence and simplifies treatment regimens
• Suitable for step-down therapy following intravenous antimicrobial treatment
• Low potential for resistance development when used according to susceptibility testing
• Well-established safety and efficacy profile supported by decades of clinical use

Common use

Floxin is indicated for the treatment of adults with infections caused by susceptible strains of designated microorganisms. Common clinical applications include acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, community-acquired pneumonia, uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, and complicated urinary tract infections including pyelonephritis. It is also used for sexually transmitted infections such as acute uncomplicated gonorrhea and nongonococcal urethritis/cervicitis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. Off-label uses may include bacterial prostatitis, traveler’s diarrhea, and certain types of bacterial conjunctivitis (though ophthalmic formulations exist separately).

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage of Floxin varies based on infection type, severity, and renal function. For most indications in adults with normal renal function (creatinine clearance >50 mL/min), the typical dose is 400 mg orally every 12 hours. For urinary tract infections, a dose of 200 mg every 12 hours may be sufficient. Duration of treatment generally ranges from 7 to 14 days depending on clinical response. Administration should occur at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after antacids containing magnesium or aluminum, sucralfate, or other products containing multivalent cations. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water, and patients should maintain adequate hydration during therapy.

Precautions

Patients should be advised that Floxin may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or visual disturbances that could impair physical or mental abilities. Tendon inflammation or rupture, particularly of the Achilles tendon, may occur during or after therapy, especially in elderly patients, those receiving corticosteroid therapy, and organ transplant recipients. Photosensitivity reactions have been reported; patients should avoid excessive sunlight or artificial UV light and use protective measures. Blood glucose disturbances, including both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, may occur, particularly in diabetic patients. Periodic assessment of organ system functions during prolonged therapy is recommended.

Contraindications

Floxin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to ofloxacin, other quinolone antibiotics, or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with a history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone use. Concomitant administration with tizanidine is contraindicated due to the risk of potentiated hypotensive and sedative effects. Use in pediatric patients (except for specific indications where risk-benefit is established), pregnant women, and nursing mothers is generally avoided due to potential effects on developing cartilage and joints.

Possible side effect

Common adverse reactions (≥1%) include nausea, headache, insomnia, dizziness, and diarrhea. Less frequently reported effects (0.1–1%) include abdominal pain, vomiting, dyspepsia, rash, pruritus, and vaginal candidiasis. Serious adverse reactions may include tendonitis or tendon rupture, peripheral neuropathy, central nervous system effects (seizures, increased intracranial pressure, psychosis), QT prolongation, and hepatic toxicity. Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea has been reported with nearly all antibacterial agents and may range in severity from mild to life-threatening.

Drug interaction

Floxin may interact with several medication classes. Antacids, sucralfate, iron preparations, and zinc supplements can significantly reduce absorption. Warfarin therapy requires close monitoring of prothrombin time due to potential enhancement of anticoagulant effect. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may increase the risk of CNS stimulation and seizures. Theophylline levels may be increased, necessitating monitoring and potential dosage adjustment. Drugs that prolong the QT interval (antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, antidepressants) should be used cautiously due to additive effects. Insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents may require adjustment due to potential glucose alterations.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, 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. Maintaining consistent antibiotic levels is important for efficacy, so patients should be instructed to establish a routine for medication administration. If multiple doses are missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, gastric discomfort, and CNS stimulation including seizures. Renal crystalluria secondary to precipitation of ofloxacin may occur, particularly in alkaline urine. Management should include general supportive measures with close observation and maintenance of hydration. ECG monitoring is recommended due to potential QT prolongation. Hemodialysis removes approximately 20–30% of an administered dose and may be considered in severe cases, though the efficacy of peritoneal dialysis has not been established. There is no specific antidote for ofloxacin overdose.

Storage

Store Floxin tablets at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep container tightly closed and protect from light and moisture. Dispense in original container with child-resistant closure. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication once the treatment course is completed; do not flush medications down the toilet or pour into drains unless specifically instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The prescribing physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. Dosage and administration should be determined by a qualified healthcare professional based on the patient’s individual circumstances. The complete prescribing information should be reviewed before initiating therapy. Serious and sometimes fatal reactions have been reported with fluoroquinolone use, and the drug should be reserved for situations where alternative treatments are not appropriate.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated Floxin’s efficacy across multiple infection types. In a multicenter trial of 452 patients with complicated urinary tract infections, clinical cure rates of 91% were observed with 400 mg twice daily for 10 days. For respiratory tract infections, bacteriological eradication rates exceeded 90% for common pathogens including S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae. Dermatology studies showed comparable efficacy to cephalosporins in skin and soft tissue infections with favorable tolerability profiles. Post-marketing surveillance data continue to support its risk-benefit profile when used appropriately according to susceptibility patterns and patient characteristics.