Ciloxan (ciprofloxacin hydrochloride ophthalmic solution) 0.3% is a sterile, topical antimicrobial formulation indicated for the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms. As a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, it exerts its bactericidal effect by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes critical for DNA replication, transcription, and repair. This ophthalmic solution is specifically engineered for optimal corneal penetration and bioavailability, making it a first-line choice for ophthalmologists and optometrists in managing bacterial conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers. Its broad-spectrum coverage and established efficacy profile support its use in both community and clinical settings.

Features

• Contains 0.3% ciprofloxacin hydrochloride as the active pharmaceutical ingredient.
• Formulated as a sterile, isotonic, buffered, preserved aqueous solution.
• pH is adjusted to approximately 4.5 to maximize stability and patient comfort.
• Supplied in a white, opaque, plastic dropper bottle for precise, contamination-resistant dispensing.
• Each mL contains: Active: ciprofloxacin hydrochloride 3.46 mg equivalent to 3 mg ciprofloxacin base. Inactives: acetic acid, sodium acetate, mannitol, edetate disodium, sodium chloride, hydrochloric acid, water for injection, and benzalkonium chloride 0.006% as a preservative.

Benefits

• Provides rapid, potent bactericidal activity against a wide spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative ocular pathogens.
• Achieves high therapeutic concentrations in the corneal stroma and aqueous humor, effectively reaching the site of infection.
• The convenient dropper bottle design allows for accurate self-administration by patients, promoting adherence to the treatment regimen.
• Demonstrated clinical efficacy in eradicating causative bacteria, leading to resolution of clinical signs and symptoms such as purulent discharge, conjunctival injection, and corneal infiltrates.
• Helps prevent potential sight-threatening complications from untreated or improperly treated bacterial keratitis.
• Supported by extensive clinical trial data and decades of post-market surveillance confirming its safety and effectiveness.

Common use

Ciloxan Ophthalmic Solution is primarily prescribed for the treatment of the following bacterial infections of the eye:

• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: An infection of the conjunctiva characterized by redness, swelling, purulent discharge, and irritation, caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms including Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Corneal Ulcers (Bacterial Keratitis): A more serious infection involving the cornea, often associated with contact lens wear, trauma, or previous ocular surface disease. It is used for ulcers caused by susceptible strains of the aforementioned bacteria.

Dosage and direction

The dosage and frequency are determined by the severity of the infection and must be prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.

• For Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Instill 1 to 2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours while awake for the first two days, and then 1 to 2 drops every 4 hours while awake for the next five days.
• For Corneal Ulcers: Instill 2 drops into the affected eye every 15 minutes for the first six hours, then 2 drops every 30 minutes for the remainder of the first day. On day two, instill 2 drops hourly. On days 3 through 14, instill 2 drops every 4 hours.
• Administration Instructions: Wash hands thoroughly before use. Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface, including the eye, to prevent contamination. Tilt head back, pull down the lower eyelid to create a pouch, and instill the prescribed number of drops. Close eyes gently and apply light pressure to the tear duct (corner of the eye near the nose) for 1-2 minutes to minimize systemic absorption. If more than one topical ophthalmic drug is being used, administer them at least 5 minutes apart.

Precautions

• Prolonged Use: Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If superinfection occurs, discontinue use and institute alternative therapy.
• Contact Lenses: Patients should not wear contact lenses if they have signs and symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis or during the course of therapy with this solution.
• Systemic Effects: As with other antibacterial preparations, prolonged use may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms. Systemic quinolones have been associated with serious, sometimes fatal, hypersensitivity reactions, even following a single dose. Discontinue use immediately at the first sign of a skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity.
• Corneal Healing: In disorders of the corneal epithelium, topical corticosteroids may be contraindicated due to the potential for enhancing microbial replication. The safety and efficacy of using this drug in combination with a corticosteroid have not been established.
• Patient Advice: Inform patients that the solution is for topical ophthalmic use only and not for injection. Advise patients to discontinue use and consult a physician if any ocular reaction occurs, particularly conjunctival hyperemia, and to avoid contaminating the applicator tip.

Contraindications

Ciloxan Ophthalmic Solution is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to ciprofloxacin, to other quinolones, or to any of the components in this formulation.

Possible side effect

The most frequently reported adverse reactions occurred in 1-4% of patients and include local burning or discomfort, crystalline precipitates (white specks) in the cornea (typically in patients with corneal ulcers), foreign body sensation, itching, conjunctival hyperemia, bad taste following instillation, corneal staining, photophobia, eyelid edema, tearing, and dryness. Less common reactions (<1%) include corneal infiltrates, nausea, decreased vision, allergic reactions, lid margin crusting, conjunctival edema, and dizziness. Crystalline precipitates are usually clear or white and may require discontinuation of therapy if they interfere with vision.

Drug interaction

Specific formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted with Ciloxan Ophthalmic Solution. However, the systemic administration of some quinolones has been shown to elevate plasma concentrations of theophylline, interfere with the metabolism of caffeine, and enhance the effects of the oral anticoagulant warfarin and its derivatives. The potential for interaction at a systemic level from topical ocular administration is considered low but cannot be entirely ruled out, especially in patients with significant corneal epithelial defects. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Do not instill a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Topical overdose of Ciloxan is unlikely to cause life-threatening symptoms due to minimal systemic absorption. Excessive administration may be flushed from the eye(s) with warm tap water. Symptoms of systemic overdose following accidental oral ingestion (which is not the intended route) would be consistent with systemic fluoroquinolone overdose and may include dizziness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical attention or contact a poison control center.

Storage

• Store at controlled room temperature 15°-30°C (59°-86°F).
• Protect from light. The opaque bottle is designed for this purpose.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Do not freeze.
• Discard the bottle and any remaining solution one (1) month after the bottle is first opened, even if it still contains medication, to prevent potential contamination and loss of sterility.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The manufacturer and publisher are not responsible for any errors or omissions or for any consequences from the application of this information.

Reviews

“Ciloxan has been a cornerstone of my practice for treating bacterial keratitis for years. Its broad-spectrum coverage, particularly against Pseudomonas, is invaluable. I find the clinical response in severe ulcers to be rapid and predictable when treatment is initiated promptly.” – Ophthalmologist, Corneal Specialist “In cases of severe bacterial conjunctivitis with copious purulent discharge, I reliably prescribe Ciloxan. The dosing regimen is intensive but effective, and patients typically report a significant reduction in symptoms within 48 hours. The potential for crystalline precipitates is a consideration in corneal cases, but it’s a manageable issue.” – Optometrist “As a contact lens wearer who developed a nasty infection, my doctor prescribed Ciloxan. The burning sensation upon application was noticeable but brief. My redness and discomfort started improving the next day. It was easy to use, and the clear instructions made the process simple.” – Patient