Ofloxacin tablets are a synthetic broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent for oral administration. Chemically, Ofloxacin, a fluorinated carboxyquinolone, is the racemate, (±) - 9 - fluoro - 2,3 - dihydro - 3 - methyl - 10 - (4 - methyl - 1 - piperazinyl) - 7 - oxo - 7H - pyrido[1,2,3 - de] - 1,4 - benzoxazine - 6 - carboxylic acid. The chemical structure is:
C18H20FN3O4 M.W. 361.4
Ofloxacin is an off-white to pale yellow crystalline powder. The molecule exists as a zwitterion at the pH conditions in the small intestine. The relative solubility characteristics of Ofloxacin at room temperature, as defined by USP nomenclature, indicate that Ofloxacin is considered to be soluble in aqueous solutions with pH between 2 and 5. It is sparingly to slightly soluble in aqueous solutions with pH 7 (solubility falls to 4 mg/mL) and freely soluble in aqueous solutions with pH above 9. Ofloxacin has the potential to form stable coordination compounds with many metal ions. This in vitro chelation potential has the following formation order: Fe+3 > Al+3 > Cu+2 > Ni+2 > Pb+2 > Zn+2 > Mg+2 > Ca+2 > Ba+2.
Ofloxacin tablets contain the following inactive ingredients: corn starch, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, lactose anhydrous, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol 400, polysorbate 80, sodium starch glycolate, and titanium dioxide. Additionally, the 200 mg tablets contain iron oxide yellow and the 400 mg tablets contain iron oxide yellow and iron oxide red.
Ofloxacin - Clinical Pharmacology
Following oral administration, the bioavailability of Ofloxacin in the tablet formulation is approximately 98%. Maximum serum concentrations are achieved one to two hours after an oral dose. Absorption of Ofloxacin after single or multiple doses of 200 to 400 mg is predictable, and the amount of drug absorbed increases proportionately with the dose. Ofloxacin has biphasic elimination. Following multiple oral doses at steady-state administration, the half-lives are approximately 4 to 5 hours and 20 to 25 hours. However, the longer half-life represents less than 5% of the total AUC. Accumulation at steady-state can be estimated using a half-life of 9 hours. The total clearance and volume of distribution are approximately similar after single or multiple doses. Elimination is mainly by renal excretion. The following are mean peak serum concentrations in healthy 70 to 80 kg male volunteers after single oral doses of 200, 300, or 400 mg of Ofloxacin or after multiple oral doses of 400 mg.
| Oral Dose |
Serum Concentration 2 Hours After Admin. (mcg/mL) |
Area Under the Curve (AUC(0-∞)) (mcg•h/mL) |
| 200 mg single dose |
1.5 |
14.1 |
| 300 mg single dose |
2.4 |
21.2 |
| 400 mg single dose |
2.9 |
31.4 |
| 400 mg steady-state |
4.6 |
61.0 |
Steady-state concentrations were attained after four oral doses, and the area under the curve (AUC) was approximately 40% higher than the AUC after single doses. Therefore, after multiple-dose administration of 200 mg and 300 mg doses, peak serum levels of 2.2 mcg/mL and 3.6 mcg/mL, respectively, are predicted at steady-state.
In vitro, approximately 32% of the drug in plasma is protein bound.
The single dose and steady-state plasma profiles of Ofloxacin injection were comparable in extent of exposure (AUC) to those of Ofloxacin tablets when the injectable and tablet formulations of Ofloxacin were administered in equal doses (mg/mg) to the same group of subjects. The mean steady-state AUC(0-12) attained after the intravenous administration of 400 mg over 60 min was 43.5 mcg•h/mL; the mean steady-state AUC(0-12) attained after the oral administration of 400 mg was 41.2 mcg•h/mL (two one-sided t-test, 90% confidence interval was 103 to 109) (see following chart).
Between 0 and 6 h following the administration of a single 200 mg oral dose of Ofloxacin to 12 healthy volunteers, the average urine Ofloxacin concentration was approximately 220 mcg/mL. Between 12 and 24 hours after administration, the average urine Ofloxacin level was approximately 34 mcg/mL.
Following oral administration of recommended therapeutic doses, Ofloxacin has been detected in blister fluid, cervix, lung tissue, ovary, prostatic fluid, prostatic tissue, skin, and sputum. The mean concentration of Ofloxacin in each of these various body fluids and tissues after one or more doses was 0.8 to 1.5 times the concurrent plasma level. Inadequate data are presently available on the distribution or levels of Ofloxacin in the cerebrospinal fluid or brain tissue.
Ofloxacin has a pyridobenzoxazine ring that appears to decrease the extent of parent compound metabolism. Between 65% and 80% of an administered oral dose of Ofloxacin is excreted unchanged via the kidneys within 48 hours of dosing. Studies indicate that less than 5% of an administered dose is recovered in the urine as the desmethyl or N-oxide metabolites. Four to eight percent of an Ofloxacin dose is excreted in the feces. This indicates a small degree of biliary excretion of Ofloxacin.
The administration of Ofloxacin tablets with food does not affect the Cmax and AUC∞ of the drug, but Tmax is prolonged.
Clearance of Ofloxacin is reduced in patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance rate ≤ 50 mL/min), and dosage adjustment is necessary (see PRECAUTIONS, General and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
Following oral administration to healthy elderly subjects (65 to 81 years of age), maximum plasma concentrations are usually achieved one to two hours after single and multiple twice-daily doses, indicating that the rate of oral absorption is unaffected by age or gender. Mean peak plasma concentrations in elderly subjects were 9 to 21% higher than those observed in younger subjects. Gender differences in the pharmacokinetic properties of elderly subjects have been observed. Peak plasma concentrations were 114% and 54% higher in elderly females compared to elderly males following single and multiple twice-daily doses. [This interpretation was based on study results collected from two separate studies.] Plasma concentrations increase dose-dependently with the increase in doses after single oral dose and at steady state. No differences were observed in the volume of distribution values between elderly and younger subjects. As in younger subjects, elimination is mainly by renal excretion as unchanged drug in elderly subjects, although less drug is recovered from renal excretion in elderly subjects. Consistent with younger subjects, less than 5% of an administered dose was recovered in the urine as the desmethyl and N-oxide metabolites in the elderly. A longer plasma half-life of approximately 6.4 to 7.4 hours was observed in elderly subjects, compared with 4 to 5 hours for young subjects. Slower elimination of Ofloxacin is observed in elderly subjects as compared with younger subjects which may be attributable to the reduced renal function and renal clearance observed in the elderly subjects. Because Ofloxacin is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients with impaired renal function as recommended for all patients (see PRECAUTIONS, General and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
MICROBIOLOGY
Ofloxacin is a quinolone antimicrobial agent. The mechanism of action of Ofloxacin and other fluoroquinolone antimicrobials involves inhibition of bacterial topoisomerase IV and DNA gyrase (both of which are type II topoisomerases), enzymes required for DNA replication, transcription, repair and recombination.
Ofloxacin has in vitro activity against a wide range of gram-negative and gram-positive microorganisms. Ofloxacin is often bactericidal at concentrations equal to or slightly greater than inhibitory concentrations.
Fluoroquinolones, including Ofloxacin, differ in chemical structure and mode of action from aminoglycosides, macrolides and β-lactam antibiotics, including penicillins. Fluoroquinolones may, therefore, be active against bacteria resistant to these antimicrobials.
Resistance to Ofloxacin due to spontaneous mutation in vitro is a rare occurrence (range: 10-9 to 10-11). Although cross-resistance has been observed between Ofloxacin and some other fluoroquinolones, some microorganisms resistant to other fluoroquinolones may be susceptible to Ofloxacin.
Ofloxacin has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section:
Aerobic gram-positive microorganisms
Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-susceptible strains)
Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-susceptible strains)
Streptococcus pyogenes
Aerobic gram-negative microorganisms
Citrobacter (diversus) koseri
Enterobacter aerogenes
Escherichia coli
Haemophilus influenzae
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Proteus mirabilis
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
As with other drugs in this class, some strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa may develop resistance fairly rapidly during treatment with Ofloxacin.
Other microorganisms
Chlamydia trachomatis
The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown.
Ofloxacin exhibits in vitro minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC values) of 2 mcg/mL or less against most (≥ 90%) strains of the following microorganisms; however, the safety and effectiveness of Ofloxacin in treating clinical infections due to these microorganisms have not been established in adequate and well-controlled trials.
Aerobic gram-positive microorganisms
Staphylococcus epidermidis (methicillin-susceptible strains)
Staphylococcus saprophyticus
Streptococcus pneumoniae (penicillin-resistant strains)
Aerobic gram-negative microorganisms
Acinetobacter calcoaceticus
Bordetella pertussis
Citrobacter freundii
Enterobacter cloacae
Haemophilus ducreyi
Klebsiella oxytoca
Moraxella catarrhalis
Morganella morganii
Proteus vulgaris
Providencia rettgeri
Providencia stuartii
Serratia marcescens
Anaerobic microorganisms
Clostridium perfringes
Other microorganisms
Chlamydia pneumoniae
Gardnerella vaginalis
Legionella pneumophila
Mycoplasma hominis
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Ureaplasma urealyticum
Ofloxacin is not active against Treponema pallidum (see WARNINGS).
Many strains of other streptococcal species, Enterococcus species, and anaerobes are resistant to Ofloxacin.
Susceptibility Tests
Dilution TechniquesQuantitative methods are used to determine antimicrobial minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC values). These MIC values provide estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The MIC values should be determined using a standardized procedure. Standardized procedures are based on a dilution method1 (broth or agar) or equivalent with standardized inoculum concentrations and standardized concentrations of Ofloxacin powder. The MIC values should be interpreted according to the following criteria:
For testing Enterobacteriaceae, methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa:
| MIC (mcg/mL) |
Interpretation |
| ≤ 2 |
Susceptible (S) |
| 4 |
Intermediate (I) |
| ≥ 8 |
Resistant (R) |
For testing Haemophilus influenzae: a
| MIC (mcg/mL) |
Interpretation |
| ≤ 2 |
Susceptible (S) |
a This interpretive standard is applicable only to broth microdilution susceptibility tests with Haemophilus influenzae using Haemophilus Test Medium.1
The current absence of data on resistant strains precludes defining any results other than “Susceptible.” Strains yielding MIC results suggestive of a “nonsusceptible” category should be submitted to a reference laboratory for further testing.
For testing Neisseria gonorrhoeae:b
| MIC (mcg/mL) |
Interpretation |
| ≤ 0.25 |
Susceptible (S) |
| 0.5 to 1 |
Intermediate (I) |
| ≥ 2 |
Resistant (R) |
b These interpretive standards are applicable only to agar dilution tests using GC agar base and 1% defined growth supplement incubated in 5% CO2.
For testing Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes:c
| MIC (mcg/mL) |
Interpretation |
| ≤ 2 |
Susceptible (S) |
| 4 |
Intermediate (I) |
| ≥ 8 |
Resistant (R) |
c These interpretive standards are applicable only to broth microdilution susceptibility tests using cation-adjusted Mueller-Hinton broth with 2 to 5% lysed horse blood.
A report of “Susceptible” indicates that the pathogen is likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentration usually achievable. A report of “Intermediate” indicates that the result should be considered equivocal, and, if the microorganism is not fully susceptible to alternative, clinically feasible drugs, the test should be repeated. This category implies possible clinical applicability in body sites where the drug is physiologically concentrated or in situations where a high dosage of drug can be used. This category also provides a buffer zone which prevents small uncontrolled technical factors from causing major discrepancies in interpretation. A report of “Resistant” indicates that the pathogen is not likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentration usually achievable; other therapy should be selected.
Standardized susceptibility test procedures require the use of laboratory control microorganisms to control the technical aspects of the laboratory procedures. Standard Ofloxacin powder should provide the following MIC values:
| Microorganism |
|
MICRange (mcg/mL) |
| Escherichia coli |
ATCC 25922 |
0.015 to 0.12 |
| Haemophilus influenzae |
ATCC 49247d |
0.016 to 0.06 |
| Neisseria gonorrhoeae |
ATCC 49226e |
0.004 to 0.016 |
| Pseudomonas aeruginosa |
ATCC 27853 |
1 to 8 |
| Staphylococcus aureus |
ATCC 29213 |
0.12 to 1 |
| Streptococcus pneumoniae |
ATCC 49619f |
1 to 4 |
d This quality control range is applicable only to H. influenzae ATCC 49247 tested by a microdilution procedure using Haemophilus Test Medium (HTM).1
e This quality control range is applicable only to N. gonorrhoeae ATCC 49226 tested by an agar dilution procedure using GC agar base with 1% defined growth supplement incubated in 5% CO2.
f This quality control range is applicable only to S. pneumoniae ATCC 49619 tested by a microdilution procedure using cation-adjusted Mueller-Hinton broth with 2 to 5% lysed horse blood.
Diffusion TechniquesQuantitative methods that require measurement of zone diameters also provide reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. One such standardized procedure2 requires the use of standardized inoculum concentrations. This procedure uses paper disks impregnated with 5 mcg Ofloxacin to test the susceptibility of microorganisms to Ofloxacin.
Reports from the laboratory providing results of the standard single-disk susceptibility test with a 5 mcg Ofloxacin disk should be interpreted according to the following criteria:
For testing Enterobacteriaceae, methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa:
| Zone Diameter (mm) |
Interpretation |
| ≥ 16 |
Susceptible (S) |
| 13 to 15 |
Intermediate (I) |
| ≤ 12 |
Resistant (R) |
For testing Haemophilus influenzae:g
| Zone Diameter (mm) |
Interpretation |
| ≥ 16 |
Susceptible (S) |
g This zone diameter standard is applicable only to disk diffusion tests with Haemophilusinfluenzae using Haemophilus Test Medium (HTM)2 incubated in 5% CO2.
The current absence of data on resistant strains precludes defining any results other than “Susceptible.” Strains yielding zone diameter results suggestive of a “nonsusceptible” category should be submitted to a reference laboratory for further testing.
For testing Neisseria gonorrhoeae:h
| Zone Diameter (mm) |
Interpretation |
| ≥ 31 |
Susceptible (S) |
| 25 to 30 |
Intermediate (I) |
| ≤ 24 |
Resistant (R) |
h These zone diameter standards are applicable only to disk diffusion tests using GC agar base and 1% defined growth supplement incubated in 5% CO2.
For testing Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes:i
| Zone Diameter (mm) |
Interpretation |
| ≥ 16 |
Susceptible (S) |
| 13 to 15 |
Intermediate (I) |
| ≤ 12 |
Resistant (R) |
i These zone diameter standards are applicable only to disk diffusion tests performed using Mueller-Hinton agar supplemented with 5% defibrinated sheep blood and incubated in 5% CO2.
Interpretation should be as stated above for results using dilution techniques. Interpretation involves correlation of the diameter obtained in the disk test with the MIC for Ofloxacin.
As with standardized dilution techniques, diffusion methods require the use of laboratory control microorganisms that are used to control the technical aspects of the laboratory procedures. For the diffusion technique, the 5 mcg Ofloxacin disk should provide the following zone diameters in these laboratory quality control strains:
| Microorganism |
|
Zone Diameter (mm) |
| Escherichia coli |
ATCC 25922 |
29 to 33 |
| Haemophilus influenzae |
ATCC 49247j |
31 to 40 |
| Neisseria gonorrhoeae |
ATCC 49226k |
43 to 51 |
| Pseudomonas aeruginosa |
ATCC 27853 |
17 to 21 |
| Staphylococcus aureus |
ATCC 25923 |
24 to 28 |
| Streptococcus pneumoniae |
ATCC 49619l |
16 to 21 |
j This quality control range is applicable only to H. influenzae ATCC 49247 tested by a disk diffusion procedure using Haemophilus Test Medium (HTM)2 incubated in 5% CO2.
k This quality control range is applicable only to N. gonorrhoeae ATCC 49226 tested by a disk diffusion procedure using GC agar base with 1% defined growth supplement incubated in 5% CO2.
l This quality control range is applicable only to S. pneumoniae ATCC 49619 tested by a disk diffusion procedure using Mueller-Hinton agar supplemented with 5% defibrinated sheep blood and incubated in 5% CO2.
Indications and Usage for Ofloxacin
To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of Ofloxacin tablets and other antibacterial drugs, Ofloxacin tablets should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.
Ofloxacin tablets are indicated for the treatment of adults with mild to moderate infections (unless otherwise indicated) caused by susceptible strains of the designated microorganisms in the infections listed below. Please see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION for specific recommendations.
Acute bacterial exacerbations of chronic bronchitis due to Haemophilus influenzae or Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Community-acquired pneumonia due to Haemophilus influenzae or Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections due to methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, or Proteus mirabilis.
Acute, uncomplicated urethral and cervical gonorrhea due to Neisseria gonorrhoeae (see WARNINGS).
Nongonococcal urethritis and cervicitis due to Chlamydia trachomatis (see WARNINGS).
Mixed infections of the urethra and cervix due to Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (see WARNINGS).
Acute pelvic inflammatory disease (including severe infection) due to Chlamydia trachomatis and/or Neisseria gonorrhoeae (see WARNINGS).
NOTE: If anaerobic microorganisms are suspected of contributing to the infection, appropriate therapy for anaerobic pathogens should be administered.
Uncomplicated cystitis due to Citrobacter diversus, Enterobacter aerogenes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, or Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Complicated urinary tract infections due to Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Citrobacter diversus,* or Pseudomonas aeruginosa.*
Prostatitis due to Escherichia coli.
* = Although treatment of infections due to this organism in this organ system demonstrated a clinically significant outcome, efficacy was studied in fewer than 10 patients.
Appropriate culture and susceptibility tests should be performed before treatment in order to isolate and identify organisms causing the infection and to determine their susceptibility to Ofloxacin. Therapy with Ofloxacin may be initiated before results of these tests are known; once results become available, appropriate therapy should be continued.
As with other drugs in this class, some strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa may develop resistance fairly rapidly during treatment with Ofloxacin. Culture and susceptibility testing performed periodically during therapy will provide information not only on the therapeutic effect of the antimicrobial agent but also on the possible emergence of bacterial resistance.
Contraindications
Ofloxacin tablets are contraindicated in persons with a history of hypersensitivity associated with the use of Ofloxacin or any member of the quinolone group of antimicrobial agents.
Warnings
Tendinopathy and Tendon Rupture
Fluoroquinolones, including Ofloxacin, are associated with an increased risk of tendinitis and tendon rupture in all ages. This adverse reaction most frequently involves the Achilles tendon, and rupture of the Achilles tendon may require surgical repair. Tendinitis and tendon rupture in the rotator cuff (the shoulder), the hand, the biceps, the thumb, and other tendon sites have also been reported. The risk of developing fluoroquinolone-associated tendinitis and tendon rupture is further increased in older patients usually over 60 years of age, in those taking corticosteroid drugs, and in patients with kidney, heart or lung transplants. Factors, in addition to age and corticosteroid use, that may independently increase the risk of tendon rupture include strenuous physical activity, renal failure, and previous tendon disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. Tendinitis and tendon rupture have also occurred in patients taking fluoroquinolones who do not have the above risk factors. Tendon rupture can occur during or after completion of therapy; cases occurring up to several months after completion of therapy have been reported. Ofloxacin should be discontinued if the patient experiences pain, swelling, inflammation or rupture of a tendon. Patients should be advised to rest at the first sign of tendinitis or tendon rupture, and to contact their healthcare provider regarding changing to a non-quinolone antimicrobial drug.
THE SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF Ofloxacin IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS AND ADOLESCENTS (UNDER THE AGE OF 18 YEARS), PREGNANT WOMEN, AND LACTATING WOMEN HAVE NOT BEEN ESTABLISHED (see PRECAUTIONS, Pediatric Use, Pregnancy, and Nursing Mothers).
In the immature rat, the oral administration of Ofloxacin at 5 to 16 times the recommended maximum human dose based on mg/kg or 1 to 3 times based on mg/m2 increased the incidence and severity of osteochondrosis. The lesions did not regress after 13 weeks of drug withdrawal. Other quinolones also produce similar erosions in the weight-bearing joints and other signs of arthropathy in immature animals of various species (see ANIMAL PHARMACOLOGY).
Convulsions, increased intracranial pressure (including pseudotumor cerebri), and toxic psychosis have been reported in patients receiving quinolones, including Ofloxacin. Quinolones, including Ofloxacin, may also cause central nervous system stimulation which may lead to: tremors, restlessness/agitation, nervousness/anxiety, lightheadedness, confusion, hallucinations, paranoia and depression, nightmares, insomnia, and rarely suicidal thoughts or acts. These reactions may occur following the first dose. If these reactions occur in patients receiving Ofloxacin, the drug should be discontinued and appropriate measures instituted. Insomnia may be more common with Ofloxacin than some other products in the quinolone class. As with all quinolones, Ofloxacin should be used with caution in patients with a known or suspected CNS disorder that may predispose to seizures or lower the seizure threshold (e.g., severe cerebral arteriosclerosis, epilepsy) or in the presence of other risk factors that may predispose to seizures or lower the seizure threshold (e.g., certain drug therapy, renal dysfunction) (see PRECAUTIONS, General, Information for Patients, Drug Interactions and ADVERSE REACTIONS).
Exacerbation of myasthenia gravisFluoroquinolones, including Ofloxacin, have neuromuscular blocking activity and may exacerbate muscle weakness in persons with myasthenia gravis. Postmarketing serious adverse events, including deaths and requirement for ventilatory support, have been associated with fluoroquinolone use in persons with myasthenia gravis. Avoid Ofloxacin in patients with known history of myasthenia gravis (see PRECAUTIONS, Information for Patients and ADVERSE REACTIONS, Postmarketing Adverse Events).
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Serious and occasionally fatal hypersensitivity and/or anaphylactic reactions have been reported in patients receiving therapy with quinolones, including Ofloxacin. These reactions often occur following the first dose. Some reactions have been accompanied by cardiovascular collapse, hypotension/shock, seizure, loss of consciousness, tingling, angioedema (including tongue, laryngeal, throat, or facial edema/swelling), airway obstruction (including bronchospasm, shortness of breath, and acute respiratory distress), dyspnea, urticaria, itching, and other serious skin reactions. This drug should be discontinued immediately at the first appearance of a skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity. Serious acute hypersensitivity reactions may require treatment with epinephrine and other resuscitative measures, including oxygen, intravenous fluids, antihistamines, corticosteroids, pressor amines, and airway management, as clinically indicated (see PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS).
Other serious and sometimes fatal events, some due to hypersensitivity, and some due to uncertain etiology, have been reported rarely in patients receiving therapy with quinolones, including Ofloxacin. These events may be severe and generally occur following the administration of multiple doses. Clinical manifestations may include one or more of the following:
- fever, rash, or severe dermatologic reactions (e.g., toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome);
- vasculitis; arthralgia; myalgia; serum sickness;
- allergic pneumonitis;
- interstitial nephritis; acute renal insufficiency or failure;
- hepatitis; jaundice; acute hepatic necrosis or failure;
- anemia, including hemolytic and aplastic; thrombocytopenia, including thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura; leukopenia; agranulocytosis; pancytopenia; and/or other hematologic abnormalities.
The drug should be discontinued immediately at the first appearance of skin rash, jaundice, or any other sign of hypersensitivity and supportive measures instituted (see PRECAUTIONS, Information for Patients and ADVERSE REACTIONS).
Peripheral Neuropathy
Rare cases of sensory or sensorimotor axonal polyneuropathy affecting small and/or large axons resulting in paresthesias, hypoesthesias, dysesthesias and weakness have been reported in patients receiving quinolones, including Ofloxacin. Ofloxacin should be discontinued if the patient experiences symptoms of neuropathy including pain, burning, tingling, numbness, and/or weakness or other alterations of sensation including light touch, pain, temperature, position sense, and vibratory sensation in order to prevent the development of an irreversible condition.
Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including Ofloxacin tablets, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.
C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.
If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated (see ADVERSE REACTIONS).
Ofloxacin has not been shown to be effective in the treatment of syphilis.
Antimicrobial agents used in high doses for short periods of time to treat gonorrhea may mask or delay the symptoms of incubating syphilis. All patients with gonorrhea should have a serologic test for syphilis at the time of diagnosis. Patients treated with Ofloxacin for gonorrhea should have a follow-up serologic test for syphilis after three months and, if positive, treatment with an appropriate antimicrobial should be instituted.
Precautions
General
Prescribing Ofloxacin tablets in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
Adequate hydration of patients receiving Ofloxacin should be maintained to prevent the formation of a highly concentrated urine.
Administer Ofloxacin with caution in the presence of renal or hepatic insufficiency/impairment. In patients with known or suspected renal or hepatic insufficiency/impairment, careful clinical observation and appropriate laboratory studies should be performed prior to and during therapy since elimination of Ofloxacin may be reduced. In patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance ≤ 50 mg/mL), alteration of the dosage regimen is necessary (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
Moderate to severe photosensitivity/phototoxicity reactions, the latter of which may manifest as exaggerated sunburn reactions (e.g., burning, erythema, exudation, vesicles, blistering, edema) involving areas exposed to light (typically the face, “V” area of the neck, extensor surfaces of the forearms, dorsa of the hands), can be associated with the use of quinolones after sun or UV light exposure. Therefore, excessive exposure to these sources of light should be avoided. Drug therapy should be discontinued if photosensitivity/phototoxicity occurs (see ADVERSEREACTIONS, Postmarketing Adverse Events).
As with other quinolones, Ofloxacin should be used with caution in any patient with a known or suspected CNS disorder that may predispose to seizures or lower the seizure threshold (e.g., severe cerebral arteriosclerosis, epilepsy) or in the presence of other risk factors that may predispose to seizures or lower the seizure threshold (e.g., certain drug therapy, renal dysfunction) (see WARNINGS and Drug Interactions).
A possible interaction between oral hypoglycemic drugs (e.g., glyburide/glibenclamide) or with insulin and fluoroquinolone antimicrobial agents have been reported resulting in a potentiation of the hypoglycemic action of these drugs. The mechanism for this interaction is not known. If a hypoglycemic reaction occurs in a patient being treated with Ofloxacin, discontinue Ofloxacin immediately and consult a physician (see Drug Interactions and ADVERSE REACTIONS).
As with any potent drug, periodic assessment of organ system functions, including renal, hepatic, and hematopoietic, is advisable during prolonged therapy (see WARNINGS and ADVERSE REACTIONS).
Torsade de PointesSome quinolones, including Ofloxacin, have been associated with prolongation of the QT interval on the electrocardiogram and infrequent cases of arrhythmia. Rare cases of torsade de pointes have been spontaneously reported during postmarketing surveillance in patients receiving quinolones, including Ofloxacin. Ofloxacin should be avoided in patients with known prolongation of the QT interval, patients with uncorrected hypokalemia, and patients receiving Class IA (quinidine, procainamide), or Class III (amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic agents.
Information for Patients
Patients should be advised:
- to contact their healthcare provider if they experience pain, swelling, or inflammation of a tendon, or weakness or inability to use one of their joints; rest and refrain from exercise; and discontinue Ofloxacin treatment. The risk of severe tendon disorders with fluoroquinolones is higher in older patients usually over 60 years of age, in patients taking corticosteroid drugs, and in patients with kidney, heart or lung transplants;
- that fluoroquinolones like Ofloxacin may cause worsening of myasthenia gravis symptoms, including muscle weakness and breathing problems. Patients should call their healthcare provider right away if you have any worsening muscle weakness or breathing problems;
- that antibacterial drugs including Ofloxacin tablets should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When Ofloxacin tablets are prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by Ofloxacin tablets or other antibacterial drugs in the future;
- that peripheral neuropathies have been associated with Ofloxacin use. If symptoms of peripheral neuropathy including pain, burning, tingling, numbness, and/or weakness develop, they should discontinue treatment and contact their physicians;
- to drink fluids liberally;
- that mineral supplements, vitamins with iron or minerals, calcium-, aluminum- or magnesium-based antacids, sucralfate or didanosine, chewable/buffered tablets or the pediatric powder for oral solution should not be taken within the two-hour period before or within the two-hour period after taking Ofloxacin (see Drug Interactions);
- that Ofloxacin can be taken without regard to meals;
- that Ofloxacin may cause neurologic adverse effects (e.g., dizziness, lightheadedness) and that patients should know how they react to Ofloxacin before they operate an automobile or machinery or engage in activities requiring mental alertness and coordination (see WARNINGS and ADVERSE REACTIONS);
- that Ofloxacin may be associated with hypersensitivity reactions, even following the first dose, to discontinue the drug at the first sign of a skin rash, hives or other skin reactions, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty in swallowing or breathing, any swelling suggesting angioedema (e.g., swelling of the lips, tongue, face; tightness of the throat, hoarseness), or any other symptom of an allergic reaction (see WARNINGS and ADVERSE REACTIONS);
- that photosensitivity/phototoxicity has been reported in patients receiving quinolone antibiotics. Patients should minimize or avoid exposure to natural or artificial sunlight (tanning beds or UVA/B treatment) while taking quinolones. If patients need to be outdoors while using quinolones, they should wear loose-fitting clothes that protect skin from sun exposure and discuss other sun protection measures with their physician. If a sunburn-like reaction or skin eruption occurs, patients should contact their physician;
- that if they are diabetic and are being treated with insulin or an oral hypoglycemic drug, to discontinue Ofloxacin immediately if a hypoglycemic reaction occurs and consult a physician (see PRECAUTIONS, General and Drug Interactions);
- that convulsions have been reported in patients taking quinolones, including Ofloxacin, and to notify their physician before taking this drug if there is a history of this condition;
- that diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible;
- to inform their physician of any personal or family history of QTc prolongation or proarrhythmic conditions such as hypokalemia, bradycardia, or recent myocardial ischemia; if they are taking any class IA (quinidine, procainamide), or class III (amiodarone, sotalol) antiarrhythmic agents. Patients should notify their physicians if they have any symptoms of prolongation of the QTc interval including prolonged heart palpitations or a loss of consciousness.
