What is ciprofloxacin ophthalmic?
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic in a group of drugs called fluoroquinolones (flor-o-KWIN-o-lones). Ciprofloxacin fights bacteria in the body.
Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat eye infections caused by bacteria. Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic is also used to treat an ulcer in the cornea of the eye.
Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about ciprofloxacin ophthalmic?
You should not use this medication if you allergic to ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or similar medications such as levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), ofloxacin (Floxin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), and others.
Avoid wearing contact lenses while you still have active symptoms of the eye infection you are treating. Do not use other eye drops or medications during treatment unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Do not allow the tip of the tube or dropper to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.
While treating a corneal ulcer, you may notice a whitish buildup in your eye. This is a sign that the medication is working and is not a harmful effect. This buildup should clear within a few days or weeks of treatment.
Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic can cause blurred vision. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.
Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as severe swelling, itching, burning, redness, or discomfort, eye pain or vision changes, signs of new eye infection (drainage, crusting, or oozing), or the first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using ciprofloxacin ophthalmic?
You should not use this medication if you allergic to ciprofloxacin (Cipro) or similar medications such as levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), ofloxacin (Floxin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), and others.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether ciprofloxacin ophthalmic is harmful to an unborn baby. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether ciprofloxacin ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not use ciprofloxacin eye drops in a child younger than 1 year old. Do not use ciprofloxacin eye ointment in a child younger than 2 years old.