Antibiotic (Fluoroquinolone)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Ofloxacin is an antibiotic that works by killing bacteria and stopping them from multiplying in your body. It belongs to a group called fluoroquinolones, which are strong antibiotics used for stubborn infections.
Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, preventing DNA supercoiling and replication, leading to bacterial cell death across a broad spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For most infections, the usual adult dose is one 200 mg or 400 mg tablet taken twice daily (morning and night), depending on the type of infection. You can take it with or without food, but drink plenty of water. A typical course lasts 5 to 14 days — your doctor will tell you exactly how long. Do not stop early even if you feel better.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed one.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of ofloxacin even if you feel better after a few days — stopping early can make the bacteria resistant and the infection harder to treat. Buy only from licensed pharmacies, not roadside vendors or open markets, as fake antibiotics are common in Nigeria. Do not share your ofloxacin with anyone else, even if they seem to have the same symptoms.
Avoid taking ofloxacin at the same time as antacids (like aluminium or magnesium-containing drugs) or multivitamins containing iron or zinc — they reduce how well the antibiotic works. Take them at least 2 hours apart. Avoid alcohol while on ofloxacin as it can worsen dizziness and stomach problems. If you are taking blood thinners like warfarin, let your doctor know as ofloxacin can increase the risk of bleeding.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Ofloxacin with your other drugs?
Ofloxacin is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it can harm the baby's developing bones and joints. Always consult your doctor for a safer alternative.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigeria can be very hot, so don't leave it in your car or near a window. Keep the tablets in their original pack and always store out of reach of children. Eye drops should be used within 4 weeks of opening.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Ofloxacin?
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