Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Besifloxacin Ophthalmic?
Besifloxacin ophthalmic (for the eyes) is an antibiotic medication that is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes.
Besifloxacin ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
How should I use Besifloxacin Ophthalmic
Use Besifloxacin Ophthalmic (Ophthalmic) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in this medicine could permanently stain the lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.
Wash your hands before using eye medication.
Turn the bottle upside down and shake it once before each use.
To apply the eye drops: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.
Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.
Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication.
Store this medicine in an upright position at room temperature. Protect from light and do not freeze.
Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
Besifloxacin Ophthalmic side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- drainage or crusting of your eye;
- severe eye irritation after using the eye drops;
- feeling like there is something in your eye;
- severe eye redness or swelling; or
- fever, or any signs of a new infection.
Common side effects may include:
- eye redness.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Besifloxacin Ophthalmic?
You should not wear contact lenses while you still have active symptoms of an eye infection.