Ofloxacine Pch (Ofloxacin)

Ofloxacin is a broad‑spectrum fluoroquinolone used to manage bacterial infections affecting several organ systems.

• Urinary tract infection: eradicates susceptible uropathogens and resolves symptoms.
• Acute bacterial sinusitis or exacerbations of chronic bronchitis: reduces bacterial load and improves respiratory function.
• Skin and soft‑tissue infection: eliminates causative Gram‑negative and Gram‑positive organisms.
• Uncomplicated gonorrhoea: provides rapid bacterial clearance.
• Bacterial prostatitis: penetrates prostatic tissue to treat infection.

• Ofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. By stabilizing the DNA‑enzyme complex, it prevents the resealing of DNA strands, leading to bacterial cell death. This bactericidal activity is concentration‑dependent and effective against a wide range of Gram‑negative and some Gram‑positive organisms.

Ofloxacin, like other fluoroquinolones, may cause a range of adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset.
• Diarrhoea: may be watery and self‑limiting.
• Headache: transient and often resolves without treatment.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness.
• Abdominal pain: crampy discomfort.
• Rash: mild skin erythema.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Tendon rupture: especially Achilles tendon, may occur during or after therapy.
• QT interval prolongation: can precipitate cardiac arrhythmias.
• Severe allergic reactions: anaphylaxis or angioedema.
• Clostridioides difficile‑associated diarrhoea: potentially life‑threatening.
• Hepatic dysfunction: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Peripheral neuropathy: sensory disturbances that may be irreversible.

Before initiating Ofloxacin therapy, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess renal function: adjust dose in patients with impaired clearance.
• Avoid use in patients with known hypersensitivity to fluoroquinolones.
• Monitor for tendon pain or swelling: discontinue if symptoms appear.
• Use with caution in pregnancy or breastfeeding: only if benefits outweigh risks.
• Avoid concomitant use with drugs that prolong the QT interval: monitor cardiac status.
• Store at ambient temperature below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Ofloxacin can interact with several medicines, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum: markedly reduce absorption.
• Iron supplements: decrease oral bioavailability.
• Warfarin: may increase INR and bleeding risk.
• Cyclosporine: elevated cyclosporine concentrations.
• Theophylline: increased plasma levels and toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• NSAIDs: heightened risk of central nervous system effects.
• Corticosteroids: additive risk of tendon rupture.
• Oral hypoglycaemic agents: potential for enhanced hypoglycaemia.
• Other QT‑prolonging agents: monitor ECG for arrhythmia.
• CYP1A2 substrates (e.g., caffeine): possible increased exposure.