besifloxacin ophthalmic

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

Action: The drug works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, which are enzymes necessary for bacterial DNA replication, repair, and transcription. By interfering with these processes, besifloxacin effectively prevents the growth and multiplication of susceptible bacteria. 

Spectrum: The drug has a relatively narrow spectrum of activity, primarily targeting bacteria commonly associated with eye infections. It is specifically indicated for treating bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) caused by susceptible strains of bacteria. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined  

1-10% 

Conjunctival redness 

Eye pain 

Headache 

Blurred vision 

Eye pruritus 

Eye irritation 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

None  

Contraindication / Caution

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

besifloxacin ophthalmic is a medication used in the form of eye drops for treating of bacterial infections of the eyes. 

Pharmacodynamics:  

The drug belongs to the fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics. It works by inhibiting bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, which are essential for DNA replication, transcription, repair, and recombination in bacteria. By inhibiting these enzymes, besifloxacin disrupts bacterial DNA synthesis, leading to cell death.   

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

When besifloxacin ophthalmic is applied topically to the eye, it is absorbed into the ocular tissues. The drug is formulated as a 0.6% ophthalmic suspension or gel, which helps in prolonging its contact time with the eye and enhances its absorption. 

Distribution 

besifloxacin is primarily distributed within the ocular tissues, including the cornea, conjunctiva, and aqueous humor. It has a high affinity for bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, which are responsible for its antimicrobial activity.  

Metabolism 

The drug undergoes minimal systemic metabolism. It is primarily metabolized within the ocular tissues, and the metabolites formed are inactive. The drug is not extensively metabolized by liver enzymes, reducing drug interaction risk.  

Excretion and elimination 

The excretion of besifloxacin primarily occurs through renal elimination. After topical application, any besifloxacin that enters the systemic circulation is eliminated through the kidneys.

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Squeeze the prescribed number of drops (usually 1 to 2 drops) into the pocket formed by your lower eyelid. 

Be careful not to blink or squeeze your eyelids tightly shut, as this may cause the medication to be expelled. 

If you need to use besifloxacin ophthalmic in both eyes, repeat the same process for the other eye. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: besifloxacin ophthalmic 

Why do we use besifloxacin ophthalmic?  

Bacterial Conjunctivitis: The drug is commonly prescribed for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis. It helps to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection and alleviate symptoms such as redness, itching, and discharge. 

Bacterial Keratitis: Bacterial keratitis can result from eye injuries or contact lens-related complications. Besifloxacin helps in eradicating the bacteria causing the infection and promotes healing of the cornea. 

Ocular Surface Infections: besifloxacin ophthalmic solution can be used to treat other types of ocular surface infections caused by susceptible bacteria. These may include infections of the eyelids (blepharitis) and the outer layer of the eye (bacterial epithelial keratitis).