Oflox 400 Tablet

OFLOX 400 TABLET

Name: OFLOX 400 TABLET is a brand name medicine manufactured by Cipla Health Ltd. The common name for its active ingredient is Ofloxacin.

Composition: Each OFLOX 400 TABLET contains 400 mg of Ofloxacin.

Uses: OFLOX 400 TABLET is an antibiotic primarily used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. It is effective against infections of the urinary tract, respiratory tract (including pneumonia and bronchitis), skin and soft tissues, eyes, ears, bone, joints, abdomen, and prostate. It also treats sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhoea and chlamydia, as well as typhoid fever and infectious diarrhoea.

Dosage and Administration: The dosage and duration are determined by a doctor based on the type and severity of the infection. For adults, a typical dosage is 200 to 400 mg every 12 hours for 3 to 14 days, or a single dose of 400 mg for uncomplicated gonorrhoea. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at a fixed time, and should be swallowed whole with plenty of liquid. It's crucial to complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), itching, rash, external genital itching in women, vaginal inflammation, and taste changes. Serious, though rare, side effects can include tendinitis or tendon rupture, nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy), central nervous system effects (like seizures), and worsening of myasthenia gravis.

Precautions: OFLOX 400 TABLET is contraindicated in individuals allergic to ofloxacin or other fluoroquinolone antibiotics. It should be used with caution in patients with a history of epilepsy, seizures, kidney or liver diseases, heart problems (especially QT prolongation), or myasthenia gravis. Avoid taking it with dairy products as they may reduce its efficacy. Patients should limit exposure to sunlight due to increased photosensitivity. Alcohol consumption should be avoided. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use.

Storage: Store OFLOX 400 TABLET in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, at room temperature (between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC). Keep it out of sight and reach of children.

OFLOX 400 TABLET, which contains the antibiotic Ofloxacin, is used to treat various bacterial infections throughout the body. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones.

What is OFLOX 400 TABLET used for?

OFLOX 400 TABLET is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. These include infections of the respiratory tract (like pneumonia and bronchitis), urinary tract (UTIs), skin and soft tissues, eyes and ears, bones and joints, abdomen, and prostate. It is also effective against certain sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia, typhoid fever, and infectious diarrhoea. It is important to note that this medicine is not effective against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu.

How does OFLOX 400 TABLET work?

OFLOX 400 TABLET contains Ofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. It works by killing the bacteria that cause infections and preventing their further spread. Ofloxacin specifically targets and inhibits bacterial enzymes called DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, which are crucial for bacterial DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination. By disrupting these essential processes, the medicine leads to the death of the bacterial cells.

What is the usual dosage for OFLOX 400 TABLET?

For adults, the typical dosage ranges from 200 to 400 milligrams (mg) every 12 hours. The duration of treatment, which can be 3 to 14 days, depends on the type and severity of the infection. For specific conditions like uncomplicated gonorrhoea, a single oral dose of 400 mg may be prescribed, while prostatitis might require treatment for 6 weeks. Your doctor will determine the exact dose and duration based on your medical condition. It can be taken with or without food, but it is advisable to take it at a fixed time each day for optimal effectiveness.

What are the possible side effects of OFLOX 400 TABLET?

Common side effects can include sleep problems, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, itching, vaginal inflammation, external genital itching in women, taste changes, stomach pain, and skin rash.

More serious side effects, though rare, can occur. These include tendinitis (inflammation of a tendon) or tendon rupture, especially in individuals over 60 years old or those taking corticosteroids. Other severe effects may involve nerve problems (peripheral neuropathy), central nervous system disorders (e.g., seizures, confusion, anxiety), worsening of muscle weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis, and heart rhythm problems (QT prolongation). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions (like hives, swelling of the face/throat, difficulty breathing), severe or bloody diarrhoea, significant changes in blood sugar, or severe muscle/tendon pain.

Is OFLOX 400 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

OFLOX 400 TABLET may be unsafe during pregnancy. Animal studies have indicated harmful effects on the developing baby, and its use is generally not recommended due to limited safety information in humans. If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, consult your doctor to weigh the potential benefits against the risks.

During breastfeeding, OFLOX 400 TABLET is considered probably unsafe as Ofloxacin can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the infant. Breastfeeding should be discontinued while taking this medicine.

Can OFLOX 400 TABLET be taken with other medications?

OFLOX 400 TABLET can interact with several other medications. It is important to avoid taking it within two hours before or after consuming antacids, multivitamins, or supplements containing calcium, magnesium, aluminum, zinc, or iron, as these can reduce its absorption and effectiveness.

Inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, minerals, and herbal products you are taking, as Ofloxacin can interact with many drugs, including certain heart rhythm medications, antidepressants, and other antibiotics. Avoid taking Oflox 400 Tablet with dairy products, as this may also lower its efficacy.

What precautions should be taken while using OFLOX 400 TABLET?

It is crucial to complete the entire course of OFLOX 400 TABLET, even if your symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning and to avoid the development of antibiotic resistance.

Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or tanning beds while on this medication, as it can increase your skin's sensitivity to light (photosensitivity). If you experience dizziness or sleepiness, do not drive or operate heavy machinery.

Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, such as kidney, liver, or heart disease, a history of epilepsy, myasthenia gravis, diabetes, or tendon problems. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is also recommended during treatment.

What happens if a dose of OFLOX 400 TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose (e.g., within 4 hours), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should OFLOX 400 TABLET be stored?

OFLOX 400 TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. It is best kept at room temperature, ideally between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Always keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.