Besifloxacin

INTRODUCTION

Indications

Treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis.

Action

Inhibits bacterial DNA synthesis by inhibiting DNA gyrase. Therapeutic Effects: Death of susceptible bacteria with decreased symptoms and sequelae of bacterial conjunctivitis. Spectrum: Active against CDC coryneform group G, Corynebacterium pseudodiphtheriticum, C. striatum, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella lacunata, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, S. hominis, S. lugdunensis, Streptococcus mitis group, Str. oralis, Str. Pneumoniae, and Str. Salivarius.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

CNS: headache. EENT: conjunctival redness, blurred vision, eye irritation, eye pain, eye pruritus.

PHYSICAL THERAPY IMPLICATIONS

Examination and Evaluation

• Monitor eye pain, itching, and inflammation to help document whether drug therapy is successful in resolving bacterial conjunctivitis.

• Watch for any new or increased eye reactions, including pain, redness, irritation, itching, or blurred vision. Report severe or worsening eye reactions to the physician.

Patient/Client-Related Instruction

• Check that the patient and family or caregivers understand ophthalmic application procedures and adhere to the recommended dosing schedule.

• Instruct patient and family/caregivers to report other troublesome side effects such as severe or prolonged headache.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Minimal absorption follows ophthalmic use.

Distribution: Unknown

Metabolism and Excretion: Unknown

Half-life: 7 hr

Contraindications/Precautions

Contraindicated in: Contact lens use.

Use Cautiously in: OB: Use during pregnancy only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus; Lactation: Use cautiously during lactation; Pedi: Safe use in children <1 yr not established.

Interactions

Drug-Drug: None noted

Route/Dosage

Ophth (Adults and Children ≥1 yr): 1 drop in affected eye(s) 3 times daily (4–12 hr apart) for 7 days.

Availability

Ophthalmic suspension: 0.6% 5 mL in 7.5-mL bottle.