Ciloxan Ointment

General Drug Information and Indications

Topical fluoroquinolone (ciprofloxacin) for bacterial conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, and ocular surface infections. Fluoroquinolone ophthalmic antibiotic (ciprofloxacin HCl). Mechanism: inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV → prevents bacterial DNA replication (bactericidal). Broad-spectrum; concentration-dependent killing. Available as 0.3% solution or ointment for topical ophthalmic use. Key information Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic ointment. For ophthalmic use only. Do not touch tip to eye. Avoid growing animals (fluoroquinolone). Store at room temperature.

How to Give this Medication

Ophthalmic solution: Instill into the conjunctival sac; avoid touching dropper tip to eye or periocular tissue. Instill 1–2 drops into affected eye(s) q2h for first 2 days, then q4h. Otic: instill as directed. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.

Side Effects

Ophthalmic: transient burning, stinging, discomfort upon instillation. Crystalline precipitates in cornea (white deposits — usually resolve). Mild conjunctival hyperemia. Systemic absorption minimal.

Precautions

For animals Topical ophthalmic only — not for injection. Assess corneal integrity before use. If no improvement in 7 days, re-evaluate diagnosis. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Ophthalmic antibiotic — avoid human eye contact. If accidental eye contact, flush with water. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian if eye irritation persists. Ophthalmic fluoroquinolone — systemic effects from eye drops are unlikely.

Ciloxan Ointment dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
CILOXAN OINTMENT 0.3% OP—Ointment1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)