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Ciprofloxacin Coupon - Ciprofloxacin 5ml of 0.3% eye dropper

ciprofloxacin

Generic Ciloxan
Used for Eye Infection
Used for Eye Infection

Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) is an eye drop and eye ointment that can treat bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye). The eye drops can also help treat corneal ulcers. This medication belongs to the drug class called fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Although the ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops can be used for people of all ages, the eye ointment is approved for people who are 2 years old and older. The typical dosing varies greatly depending on the eye condition you have, what day of treatment you're on, and which formulation you're using. Side effects are often temporary; they can include eye discomfort, an aftertaste in the mouth, and itchy eye.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ally Tsai, PharmD
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on July 31, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)?

What is Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) used for?

  • Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye that's caused by a bacterial infection)

  • Corneal ulcer (keratitis) that's caused by a bacterial infection - eye drops only

How Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) works

Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) is a fluoroquinolone (or "quinolone") antibiotic. It works by blocking the bacteria's ability to grow and repair their genetic material (DNA). By stopping this process, ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) kills the bacteria.

Are you looking for information on ciprofloxacin ear drops (Cetraxal) or oral ciprofloxacin (Cipro) instead?
When does Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsCiloxan
Drug ClassFluoroquinolone antibiotic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Burning or discomfort in the eye
  • Crusty eyelids
  • Feeling that something is in your eye
  • Itchy eye
  • Eye redness
  • Aftertaste in the mouth
  • White crystals in the eye (eye drops for corneal ulcer only)

Other Side Effects

  • Blurry vision
  • Other changes in vision
  • Corneal staining
  • Swollen eyelids
  • Dry eye
  • Watery eye
  • Eye pain
  • Light sensitivity
  • Nausea
When do Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Burning or discomfort in eyes
Blurry vision

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Rare

Blurred vision or other change in vision

eye pain

irritation (severe) or redness of the eye

nausea

skin rash, hives, or itching

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Burning or other discomfort of the eye

crusting or crystals in corner of the eye

Less common

Bad taste following use in the eye

feeling of something in the eye

itching of the eye

redness of the lining of the eyelids

Rare

Difficulty seeing at night

dryness of the eye

increased sensitivity of the eyes to light

swelling of the eyelid

tearing of the eye

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)

thumbs-up

Pros

Available as eye drops and an eye ointment

Eye drop is available as a lower-cost generic

Applied directly where the infection is (in the eye)

thumbs-down

Cons

Must use multiple times a day

Can cause temporary eye irritation

Ointment can be messy to use and hard to put in the eye

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)

pharmacist

  • Make sure to follow the prescriber's instructions to safely use ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) or to properly give the medication to your child. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after you use the medication.

    • Use ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) for as long as it's prescribed. Don't stop using the medication before you complete treatment, even if your eye gets better. Your eye infection might come back or become harder to treat if you stop using ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) too soon.

      • Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) can sometimes temporarily blur your vision. Don't drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects your vision and until you can see clearly.

        • Don't let the tip of the bottle or tube touch the eye, eyelid, or other surfaces. Also don't touch the tip with your fingers. This can spread germs into the medication and cause serious harm to the eye, like infection, if you use contaminated medication.

          • Don't use ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) while you're wearing contact lenses. Putting the medication on top of your contact lenses might cause your lenses to move or make your vision blurry. In general, it's best to not wear contact lenses when you have pink eye to prevent your infection from getting worse or your eye from getting even more irritated. Ask your prescriber about when it's safe to wear contacts again.

            • Talk with your prescriber if your eye symptoms get worse after you start using ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan). Your prescriber can check to make sure the medication is working and isn't causing side effects.

              • Throw away and replace any eye or face makeup products and disposable contact lenses that you used while your eyes were infected.

                • Store the ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops at room temperature. You can keep the ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye ointment at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

                  How to use the ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops:

                  • Pull down your lower eyelid with one hand and hold the bottle upside down just above the eye with the other. Then, gently squeeze the bottle to get the number of drops you need in your eye. Close your eye and press a finger to the corner of your eye closest to your nose for a minute. This helps the medication stay in your eye and prevents it from leaking into the nose and mouth from your tear ducts.

                    • For parents or caregivers, ask a healthcare professional for tips about placing ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops into your child's eye.

                      How to apply the ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye ointment:

                      • First, tilt your head forward. Then, pull down your lower eyelid with one hand and hold the tube of ointment with the other. Squeeze a half-inch ribbon of ointment in the space between your eyelid and eyeball. Look down before you close your eye for a few minutes to help the medication reach all the necessary parts of the eye.

                        • For parents or caregivers, review the prescriber's suggestions on how to best apply the ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye ointment into your child's eye.

                          faqs

                          Frequently asked questions about Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)

                          Is ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) a sulfa drug?
                          No, ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) isn't a sulfa drug. This means that the medication is generally okay for people with a sulfa allergy to use. To be safe, check with your prescriber before you use this medication if you've had an allergic reaction, such as swollen eyelids or red, itchy eyes, to any antibiotic in the past.
                          Can you drink alcohol with ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)?
                          It's best to talk to your prescriber first before you drink alcohol while you're taking ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan). It's possible for alcohol to weaken your immune system, which can either slow down the healing process or raise your risk of developing another infection.
                          How do you get rid of the eye drops taste in the mouth from ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)?
                          After you place the ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops into the affected eye, press your finger to the corner of your eye closest to your nose for a minute or so. This helps ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) stay in your eye and prevents the medication from draining into the nose and throat from your tear ducts, causing the aftertaste in your mouth. You can also consider brushing or scraping your tongue, drinking plenty of fluids, or chewing sugar-free gum to get rid of the taste in your mouth.
                          Can you use ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops for the ears?
                          It's possible that a healthcare professional (HCP) might prescribe ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops for an ear infection. This is because eye drops are typically gentler and less irritating than ear drops (the eyes are more sensitive than the ears). Although you can use some eye drops in the ears, you can't use ear drops in the eyes. This is important to remember because ciprofloxacin is also available as an ear drop. Check with your care team first if you aren't sure whether ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops is for your eyes or ears. Carefully follow your HCP's instructions if they prescribe ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops for an ear infection.
                          Is ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) a controlled substance?
                          No, ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) isn't a controlled substance. Controlled substances are medications that can sometimes cause your body to physically and mentally depend on them to feel normal. They're closely regulated by the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) and have more restrictions on how they can be filled. Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) is an antibiotic and a non-controlled medication. Even though it doesn't have a risk for dependence, it's important to use this medication exactly as directed by your prescriber to treat your infection.
                          Does ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) treat pink eye?
                          Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) can treat pink eye that's caused by a bacterial infection only. Symptoms of bacterial pink eye include a swollen and pink-colored eye; crusting on the eyelids in the morning; thick eye discharge that's green, yellow, or white; and discharge that builds up in the corner of the eye. About half of the time, bacterial pink eye goes away on its own within a few weeks. In the meantime, you can use a cold compress or artificial tears to help relieve symptoms. Ask a healthcare professional for an antibiotic treatment, such as ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan), if you'd like to clear the infection sooner.
                          How often do you use ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)?
                          How often you use ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) depends on what you're using it for, which formulation you have, and which day of treatment you're on. For example, for pink eye, you use the ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops every 2 hours (while awake) for the first 2 days and then every 4 hours (while awake) for the next 5 days. But you use the ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye ointment 3 times a day for the first 2 days and then 2 times a day for the next 5 days. Be sure to follow your prescriber's instructions and keep using the medication until the last day of the treatment, even if your eye starts to get better. This helps make sure your eye is completely treated.
                          Is ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) safe?
                          Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) is generally well tolerated when it's used as directed by your prescriber. The most common side effect is a temporary burning sensation or discomfort in the eye after you place the medication into the eye. Other side effects can include crusty eyelid, itchy eye, or an aftertaste. In particular, some people who've used ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops for corneal ulcer have noticed a white crystal-like substance in the eye. Typically, all these side effects are harmless and will go away once you complete your treatment. But please talk to your care team if your vision worsens or if your side effects aren't going away.
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                          warings-icon

                          What are the risks and warnings for Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)?

                          Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                          risk-warning

                          Only use on eye surface

                          Place ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) onto the surface of the affected eye(s) only. Don't put the medication in your mouth, nose, or other parts of your body.

                          risk-warning

                          Allergic reaction

                          • Risk factor: Allergy to other fluoroquinolone antibiotics

                            People who've take other forms of ciprofloxacin, such as the tablets, have experienced serious allergic reactions. These reactions can include trouble breathing; rash; and swelling of the face, mouth, or throat. Let your prescriber know if you've ever had an allergic reaction to an antibiotic before you start using ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan). They can make sure that the medication is safe for you to use. Get emergency medical help if you have an allergic reaction at any time while you're using ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan).

                            risk-warning

                            Risk of new eye infection when used for a long time

                            • Risk factor: Using ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) longer than prescribed

                              Using ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) for a long period of time can raise your risk of developing other eye infections, such as fungal eye infections. Let your prescriber know if you have eye pain or redness, blurry vision, light sensitivity, or watery discharge from your eye or if your symptoms don't improve after a couple days of treatment. These can be signs and symptoms of a new eye infection.

                              risk-warning

                              White substance on eye surface (eye drops only)

                              • Risk factor: Using ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) for corneal ulcer

                                In studies, some people who used ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) eye drops to treat corneal ulcers noticed a white substance over the area where the ulcer is. These white crystals typically appeared within 24 hours or up to a week after starting treatment with the eye drops. Often times, the white crystals don't affect the healing of the ulcer and they usually go away on their own. But let your prescriber know if the white substance causes any discomfort or worsens your vision.

                                dosage

                                Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) dosage forms

                                The average cost for 1 eye dropper of 5ml of 0.3% of Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) is $253.27 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is -20.68% off the average retail price of $209.86.
                                eye dropper
                                Eye dropper
                                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                                5ml of 0.3%2 eye droppers$253.27$126.63
                                tube of ointment
                                Tube of ointment
                                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                                3.5g of 0.3%1 tube$270.43$270.43

                                Typical dosing for Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)

                                Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)

                                • Eye drops: The typical dose is to 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 2 hours while you're awake during the first 2 days, and then 1 or 2 drops every 4 hours while you're awake for the next 5 days.

                                • Eye ointment (people 2 years and older): The typical dose is one-half inch ribbon of ointment in the affected eye(s) 3 times a day during the first 2 days, and then one-half inch ribbon of ointment 2 times a day for the next 5 days.

                                Corneal ulcer

                                • Eye drops: The typical dosing schedule is outlined below.

                                  • Day 1: The typical dose is 2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 15 minutes for the first 6 hours, and then 2 drops every 30 minutes for the rest of the day.

                                  • Day 2: The typical dose is 2 drops in the affected eye(s) every hour.

                                  • Days 3 through 14: The typical dose is 2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 4 hours, or as directed by your prescriber.

                                interactions

                                Interactions between Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) and other drugs

                                Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                                contraindications-icon

                                Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) contraindications

                                Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) will not be safe for you to take.
                                alternatives

                                What are alternatives to Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)?

                                There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                                Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)
                                Used for:

                                • Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye that's caused by a bacterial infection)

                                • Corneal ulcer (keratitis) that's caused by a bacterial infection - eye drops only

                                $19.06 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                Erythromycin eye ointment
                                Used for:
                                $11.29 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                Moxifloxacin (Vigamox)
                                Used for:
                                $13.78 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                                latest news

                                What is the latest news about Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan)?

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                                images

                                Ciprofloxacin (Ciloxan) images

                                This medicine is Colorless Eye Dropper.
                                This medicine is Colorless Eye Dropper.
                                This medicine is Colorless Eye Dropper.
                                yellow - Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride 0.3% Ophthalmic Solution
                                This medicine is Yellow Eye Dropper.yellow - Ciprofloxacin Hydrochloride 0.3% Ophthalmic Solution

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                                References

                                Best studies we found

                                Altaire Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2022). Ciprofloxacin HCL ophthalmic- ciprofloxacin hydrochloride solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

                                Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Fungal eye infections basics.

                                Gudgel, D. T. (2023). How to put in eye drops. American Academy of Ophthalmology.

                                View All References (5)

                                Healthychildren.org. (2013). How to give eye drops and eye ointment.

                                Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. (2023). Ciloxan- ciprofloxacin hydrochloride ointment [package insert]. DailyMed.

                                SafeMedication. (n.d.). How to use eye drops.

                                SafeMedication. (n.d.). How to use eye ointments and gels properly.

                                Turbert, D. (2023). What is a corneal ulcer (keratitis)? American Academy of Ophthalmology.

                                GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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