Floxin Side Effects: What to Watch For

Floxin (ofloxacin) is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for several infections. It works fast, but it can cause side effects that range from mild to serious. Know what’s common, what’s dangerous, and when to call your doctor.

Common and mild side effects

Most people notice mild symptoms that pass after a few days. These include nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, and mild skin rash. Some people report trouble sleeping or mild mood changes. If these are annoying but not severe, tell your prescriber or pharmacist — they can suggest fixes like taking the dose with food or switching medicines if needed.

Serious risks — when to act

Floxin can cause serious problems that need quick action. The top concerns are:

- Tendon problems: Pain, swelling, or a popping feeling in a tendon (often the Achilles). Fluoroquinolones can cause tendon inflammation and even rupture. Stop the drug and avoid exercise immediately if you feel tendon pain, and contact your doctor.

- Peripheral neuropathy: New numbness, tingling, or burning in hands or feet that doesn’t go away. This can be long-lasting or permanent.

- Central nervous system effects: Confusion, severe dizziness, hallucinations, or seizures. Older adults may be more sensitive.

- Heart rhythm changes: Ofloxacin can prolong the QT interval. If you feel fast or irregular heartbeat, lightheadedness, or fainting, seek care.

- Severe allergic reaction: Swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing, hives, or sudden rash. Call emergency services.

- Clostridioides difficile infection: Severe, persistent diarrhea with fever or blood in stool needs urgent attention.

Stop Floxin and get medical help for any severe or unexplained symptoms.

Who’s at higher risk? Older adults, people taking corticosteroids, those with kidney problems, and anyone with a history of tendon disorders are at higher risk for serious side effects. Also be cautious if you have heart rhythm issues or low potassium.

Drug interactions and tips for safer use

Antacids, iron, zinc, and multivitamins with minerals can reduce absorption — separate them by a few hours. Fluoroquinolones can increase the effects of warfarin and change blood sugar control with diabetes drugs. Avoid combining with other QT-prolonging drugs. Don’t use corticosteroids with Floxin unless your doctor says it’s necessary.

Practical tips — Stay hydrated, avoid heavy exercise while taking the drug and for a week after, protect skin from sun, and report new numbness or tendon pain right away. Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your provider before using Floxin.

If you’re unsure whether a symptom is linked to Floxin, call your pharmacist or prescriber. If you have life-threatening signs — trouble breathing, fainting, severe chest pain, or sudden severe pain and swelling in a tendon — go to the emergency room now.