Ciloxan⁚ A Guide to Usage, Side Effects, and Precautions

Ciloxan, containing the active ingredient ciprofloxacin, is a prescription antibiotic used to treat bacterial eye infections․ This guide will provide you with essential information about Ciloxan, including its uses, potential side effects, and important precautions․

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**Understanding Ciloxan**

• **What is it?*Ciloxan is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that comes in both eye drop and ointment forms․ It works by stopping the growth of bacteria causing the infection․
• **What does it treat?​*Ciloxan is primarily used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers․

Using Ciloxan

* Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and frequency of application․
* Typical dosage⁚
* Conjunctivitis⁚ One or two drops every two hours for two days, then one or two drops every four hours for five days․
* Corneal Ulcers⁚ The dosage regimen is more frequent and complex, often requiring application every 15-30 minutes initially, then gradually decreasing in frequency․
* Application⁚
1․ Wash your hands thoroughly․
2․ Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a pouch․
3․ Place the prescribed number of drops or a thin ribbon of ointment into the pouch․
4․ Close your eyes gently for a few minutes to allow the medication to spread․
5․ Avoid touching the tip of the dropper or tube to your eye or any other surface․
6․ Wash your hands again after application․
* Contact lenses⁚ Remove contact lenses before applying Ciloxan and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them․

Possible Side Effects

Ciloxan is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience side effects․ These may include⁚

* Common side effects⁚
* Eye discomfort⁚ Burning, stinging, itching, redness
* Changes in vision⁚ Blurred vision, sensitivity to light
* Unpleasant taste in the mouth
* White crystals forming on the eye or eyelid (these typically dissolve within a few weeks)
* Serious side effects (rare)⁚
* Allergic reactions⁚ Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling, difficulty breathing, hives, or a rash․
* Eye pain or swelling
* Changes in vision that persist or worsen

Inform your doctor if you experience any side effects while using Ciloxan․

Precautions and Contraindications

* Allergies⁚ Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to ciprofloxacin, other quinolone antibiotics, or any of the ingredients in Ciloxan․
* Other medical conditions⁚ Discuss any pre-existing medical conditions with your doctor before using Ciloxan․
* Pregnancy and breastfeeding⁚ Consult your doctor before using Ciloxan if you are pregnant or breastfeeding․
* Do not share your medication with others․
* Store Ciloxan properly as directed․

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**This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice․ Always consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment of any eye condition․**