From the Guidelines
It is generally considered safe to use Floxin ophthalmic (ofloxacin eye drops) while breastfeeding, as the medication has minimal systemic absorption and is present in breast milk in quantities far below the usual pediatric dosage for these medications. The medication is applied directly to the eye and has minimal systemic absorption, which means very little of the drug would enter the bloodstream and subsequently the breast milk 1. When using Floxin ophthalmic while breastfeeding, follow the prescribed dosage exactly, typically 1-2 drops in the affected eye(s) every 2-4 hours for the first two days, then reducing to 4 times daily for up to 10 days.
Key Considerations
- To minimize any potential exposure to your infant, apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of your eye after instillation to prevent the medication from draining into the nasal passage and potentially being absorbed systemically.
- You should also consider timing the application of the drops just after breastfeeding rather than before.
- If you notice any unusual symptoms in your baby such as diarrhea, rash, or changes in feeding patterns, contact your healthcare provider.
Safety Profile
The safety profile is based on the localized nature of ophthalmic medications and the minimal transfer to breast milk, making the benefit of treating your eye infection likely to outweigh any potential risks to the nursing infant 1. Fluoroquinolones, such as ofloxacin, are present in breast milk at concentrations two orders of magnitude lower than a typical therapeutic infant dose, and absorption of fluoroquinolones from breast milk is expected to be reduced because of the high concentration of calcium in breast milk 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Nursing Mothers In nursing women a single 200 mg oral dose resulted in concentrations of ofloxacin in milk which were similar to those found in plasma. It is not known whether ofloxacin is excreted in human milk following topical ophthalmic administration Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions from ofloxacin in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Use of Floxin ophthalmic while breast-feeding is not recommended due to the potential for serious adverse reactions from ofloxacin in nursing infants 2. A decision should be made to either discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, considering the importance of the drug to the mother.
- The concentration of ofloxacin in milk is similar to that in plasma after oral administration.
- It is unknown whether ofloxacin is excreted in human milk after topical ophthalmic administration.
From the Research
Use of Floxin Ophthalmic while Breast-Feeding
- The use of fluoroquinolones, such as ofloxacin, during breastfeeding has been a topic of discussion due to concerns about their potential effects on the infant 3.
- However, studies have shown that the use of some fluoroquinolones during breastfeeding can be considered, as the data on exposed pregnancies have not confirmed the initial fears 3.
- Ofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that has been used in various forms, including ophthalmic solutions, to treat bacterial infections 4, 5.
- While there is limited information on the specific use of Floxin ophthalmic during breastfeeding, the general consensus is that fluoroquinolones can be used cautiously in breastfeeding women, as the benefits of treatment may outweigh the risks 3.
- It is essential to note that the absorption of ofloxacin from ophthalmic solutions is typically low, which may minimize the risk of exposure to the infant 4, 5.
- Nevertheless, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication, including Floxin ophthalmic, during breastfeeding, to discuss the potential risks and benefits and determine the best course of treatment.