Ciprofloxacin - Ophthalmic

Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis (an infection that causes redness and inflammation of the membranes covering the white part of the eyes) and corneal ulcers (infection in the protective outer layer of the eye).

Instil Ciprofloxacin eye drop solution into the affected eye(s) exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as an eye drop solution or ointment.

To use the eye drop solution, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before using the eye drops.
2. Tilt your head slightly backwards. With the index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Look upward and instil the required number of drops inside the lower eyelid.
3. Close your eye and do not blink for 1 minute. Using your index finger, gently press the inner corner of your eye by the nose for 1-2 minutes. This may help prevent the absorption of Ciprofloxacin into other parts of the body.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to treat the other eye, if needed.
5. Wipe any excess liquid from your face with a clean tissue.
6. Replace and tighten the cap of the bottle.

To use the eye ointment, follow these steps:

1. Wash and dry your hands before applying the ointment.
2. With your index finger, pull the lower eyelid down the eye to form a pouch.
3. Hold the tube with your other hand and place it as near to your eyelid as possible without touching it. Squeeze a thin strip of ointment (about 1 cm unless otherwise stated) into the pouch.
4. Gently close your eyes and keep them closed for a few minutes.
5. Wipe any excess ointment from the eyelids and lashes with a clean tissue. With another clean tissue, wipe the tip of the tube clean.
6. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to treat the other eye, if needed.
7. Replace and tighten the cap of the tube.
8. Wash your hands to remove any medication.

Do not allow the tip of the dropper of this medicine to touch your eyes, eyelids, or any other surface. Recap the eye drop immediately after use. If the eye drop becomes contaminated, it could cause further infection in your eyes.

Do not share your eye drops with anyone else.

Avoid wearing contact lenses during treatment unless instructed by the doctor.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the type and severity of your infection and your response to the medication.

Use Ciprofloxacin at regular intervals. Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.

Instil the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose to make up for a missed dose.

If you often forget to instil your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Do not use Ciprofloxacin if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or similar antibiotics such as ofloxacin, levofloxacin, and norfloxacin.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Ciprofloxacin to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.

Ciprofloxacin may cause your vision to be temporarily blurred. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to see clearly.

Other side effects include any of the following: crusts or flakes on the edge of the eyelid, itching of the eyes, eye discomfort, and burning or foreign body sensation in the eyes.

If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop taking this medicine and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Protect the eye drop solution from light.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.