Zoxan -d Eye/ear Drops

ZOXAN Eye/Ear Drops

ZOXAN Eye/Ear Drops, manufactured by FDC LIMITED, is a prescription antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections in both the eyes and ears.

• Composition: The active ingredient is Ciprofloxacin (0.3% w/v). Ciprofloxacin belongs to the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics.

• Uses: ZOXAN Eye/Ear Drops are prescribed for bacterial eye infections such as bacterial conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers, as well as bacterial ear infections like otitis externa. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase, an enzyme essential for bacterial replication, thereby stopping the growth and spread of infection.

• Dosage and Administration: This medicine is for external use only. The dosage and duration should be strictly followed as advised by a healthcare professional. For eye infections, a typical regimen might be 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2-4 hours for the first two days, then reducing the frequency, but should not exceed 21 days unless directed by a doctor. Gently squeeze the dropper to place the medicine without touching the eye or ear. Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully resolved.

• Side Effects:

  • Common: Ocular discomfort (stinging, burning, irritation, gritty feeling), redness of the eye, blurred vision, headache, eye pain, eye swelling, dry eye, and a bad or altered taste. Temporary white deposits on the cornea have also been observed.
  • Serious/Rare: Dizziness, allergic reactions, changes in urination or hearing, and in rare cases, more severe effects such as loss of consciousness or irregular heartbeats.

• Precautions: Do not use if allergic to ciprofloxacin or other quinolone antibiotics. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use. Avoid wearing contact lenses during treatment for eye infections. This medication may cause temporary blurred vision, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery. Inform your doctor about all other medications, as ZOXAN Eye/Ear Drops can interact with certain drugs like warfarin, theophylline, and corticosteroids. Avoid taking antacids or supplements containing aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, or zinc within two hours before or six hours after Ciprofloxacin.

• Storage: Store ZOXAN Eye/Ear Drops at room temperature (below 30°C), away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children. Discard any remaining solution one month after opening the vial.

ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops is a combination medication containing Ciprofloxacin (an antibiotic), Dexamethasone (a corticosteroid), and Benzalkonium Chloride (a disinfectant/antiseptic). It is manufactured by FDC Limited.

What are ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops used for?

ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops are primarily used to treat bacterial infections of the eye and ear, such as bacterial conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, otitis media, and otitis externa. They also help in reducing inflammation, redness, swelling, pain, itching, and discomfort associated with these infections. It can also be used to prevent swelling and bacterial infections after eye surgery.

How do ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops work?

This medicine works due to its three active ingredients:

• Ciprofloxacin: An antibiotic that stops bacterial growth by inhibiting DNA-gyrase, an enzyme essential for bacteria to replicate their DNA, thereby killing the bacteria.
• Dexamethasone: A corticosteroid that reduces inflammation by blocking the release of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, pain, and swelling.
• Benzalkonium Chloride: Acts as a disinfectant and antiseptic by disrupting the structure of bacterial cells, preventing further growth.

What is the usual dosage for ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops?

The dosage should always be as prescribed by your doctor. Generally, for eye infections, 1-2 drops may be instilled into the affected eye(s) 2-4 times a day, potentially increasing to 1 drop every two hours during the initial 24 to 48 hours. For ear infections, typically 3-4 drops are placed into the affected ear(s) 2-3 times a day. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.

What are the possible side effects of ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops?

Common side effects include a temporary burning, stinging, irritation, itching, or redness at the application site. Other possible effects may include dryness in the eye, temporary blurred vision, eye discomfort, corneal deposits, ocular hyperemia, taste changes, ear discomfort, or ear pain. These usually resolve on their own. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During Pregnancy: Caution is advised, and you should consult your doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant. Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits against the risks. During Breastfeeding: It is recommended to discuss with your doctor before using ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops while breastfeeding, as Ciprofloxacin is found in human breast milk and there's a potential for cartilage defects in the infant.

Can ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops be taken with other medications?

While topical application generally leads to less systemic interaction, ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners like warfarin and heparin. It is essential to inform your doctor about all other medicines you are currently taking, including other eye or ear drops, to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops?

• Do not use if you are allergic to ciprofloxacin, dexamethasone, benzalkonium chloride, or any other component of the medication.
• This medicine is only effective against bacterial infections and should not be used for viral or fungal infections, as it may worsen them.
• If you have glaucoma, use with caution as the dexamethasone component can increase eye pressure. Regular monitoring of intraocular pressure may be recommended if used for more than 10 days.
• Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye, ear, hands, or any other surface to prevent contamination.
• Remove contact lenses before applying eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them, as the preservative (benzalkonium chloride) can discolor soft contact lenses.
• Temporary blurred vision may occur after application, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision clears.
• Use with caution in children under 18 years of age, and only if prescribed by a healthcare professional.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops be stored?

ZOXAN-D Eye/Ear Drops should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, typically at temperatures below 30°C or 25°C. Keep the bottle tightly capped and out of the sight and reach of children. Discard the product 30 days after opening to prevent contamination.