Description:

Aflacin Eye Drops 5ml is a sterile ophthalmic antibiotic solution containing ofloxacin (a fluoroquinolone). It treats bacterial infections of the external eye, such as bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye), corneal ulcers, blepharitis, and other superficial ocular infections caused by susceptible bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, Haemophilus). It inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, stopping bacterial growth. The 5ml bottle is a common multi-dose size. In Ghana (Accra), it is a prescription eye drop available in pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Country Medical Pharmacy) for bacterial eye infections.

Poisoning note: The query mentions “poison,” likely referring to toxicity from accidental or intentional ingestion (swallowing the eye drops). Ofloxacin eye drops are generally low-toxicity when ingested in small amounts (e.g., a few ml), but larger volumes can cause mild systemic effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache) or rare serious issues (e.g., tendon problems, QT prolongation, seizures in overdose). Unlike tetrahydrozoline (in some red-eye drops), ofloxacin does not cause severe central nervous system depression or bradycardia in typical ingestions. Seek immediate medical help (e.g., Korle Bu Hospital in Accra) or poison control if swallowed—treatment is supportive (activated charcoal if recent, fluids, monitoring).

Prescription:

Prescription-only (requires a doctor’s prescription, typically from an ophthalmologist or GP in Ghana; dispensed by pharmacies with Rx for diagnosis confirmation and to avoid misuse/resistance; not freely OTC).

Therapeutic Category:

Topical Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic / Ophthalmic Anti-infective (for bacterial ocular infections.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient: Ofloxacin USP 0.3% w/v (3 mg per ml; 15 mg total in 5ml bottle). Other ingredients (excipients, typical): Benzalkonium chloride (0.005–0.01% as preservative), sodium chloride, purified water, and pH adjusters (e.g., hydrochloric acid/sodium hydroxide to pH 6.0–7.0). The solution is clear, colorless to pale yellow, sterile, and isotonic.

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Aflacin Eye Drops 0.3% 5ml (standard sterile ophthalmic solution). Related variants: Aflacin in larger sizes (e.g., 10ml), or ofloxacin + dexamethasone combinations (e.g., for inflammation). The 5ml bottle is the common multi-dose size.

Consume Type:

Topical – Ophthalmic drops (instilled into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s); not for oral ingestion or other use). Never swallow—ingestion can cause toxicity.

Directions/Usage:

Instill 1–2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2–4 hours while awake for the first 2 days, then reduce to every 4–6 hours for the next 5–7 days (or as prescribed).

• Tilt head back, pull lower eyelid down, apply drops without touching eye/tip.
• Close eye gently for 1–2 minutes; blink to spread.
• Complete full course (usually 7–10 days) even if symptoms improve.
• For corneal ulcers: More frequent initial dosing (e.g., every hour).
• Wash hands before/after; remove contact lenses (wait 15 min before reinserting).

Common Side Effects: Common (mild/transient):

• Temporary stinging, burning, or discomfort on instillation.
• Blurred vision (short-term).
• Dryness, redness, or itching of eye. Rare: Allergic reactions (severe irritation, swelling, rash), secondary infection, or corneal toxicity with prolonged use. Systemic effects rare with topical use.

Package Type:

Plastic dropper bottle of 5ml (with nozzle/cap; often tamper-evident; supplied in carton with patient leaflet).

Storage Advice:

Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed. Do not freeze. Discard 4 weeks after opening or if cloudy/discolored. Out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For external ophthalmic use only; avoid if allergic to ofloxacin/fluoroquinolones or ingredients.
• Contraindicated in viral/fungal eye infections or if eardrum perforated (if used in ear).
• Caution in pregnancy/breastfeeding (generally safe topically but consult doctor), children (use under guidance), or contact lens wearers (remove before use).
• If severe pain, vision changes, increased redness/discharge, or no improvement after 7 days, stop use and seek urgent ophthalmology care (possible resistant infection or complications).
• Do not share bottle (risk of contamination).
• Keep out of reach of children (accidental ingestion low risk but seek help if occurs—mild GI upset likely).

Product Substitutes: Similar ofloxacin 0.3% eye drops (5ml or similar) in Ghana include:

• Generic ofloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.3% (various importers).
• Ocuflox or Exocin generics.
• Other fluoroquinolone drops (e.g., ciprofloxacin 0.3% like Ciloxan generics, moxifloxacin like Vigamox). Consult ophthalmologist/pharmacist in Accra (e.g., Korle Bu Eye Clinic) for alternatives.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Varies by batch (e.g., Ashford Laboratories Ltd. (Macao/China) or Lin-Kabs Pharmaceuticals (India) for Aflacin generics; often imported generics). Marketed/distributed in Ghana by local importers/pharmacies (e.g., Marrion Pharma or similar for registered versions).

Country of Origin:

India or China (primary sources for generic ofloxacin 0.3% eye drops imported to Ghana; USP-compliant and widely available locally; some from Macao per registrations).