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Alox
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Alox is an antibacterial drug intended for local ophthalmic use.
The active component of the drug is the substance ciprofloxacin, to which most gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, are highly sensitive in vitro. At the same time, the drug demonstrates activity against many gram-positive microbes (including, for example, streptococci and staphylococci). [ 1 ]
Indications Alox
It is used for ulcers affecting the cornea and superficial infections of the eyes and eye appendages, which are caused by strains that are sensitized to ciprofloxacin (including Pseudomonas aeruginosa).
Release form
The medicinal substance is released in the form of eye drops, inside 5 ml bottles. There is 1 such bottle inside the pack.
Pharmacodynamics
The antimicrobial effect of ciprofloxacin is based on inhibition of DNA gyrase activity (an enzyme required by microbes to bind DNA). Resistance to ciprofloxacin occurs rarely. There is no information on the occurrence of plasmid-mediated bacterial resistance to fluoroquinolones.
The specific principle of action of ciprofloxacin ensures its effect on bacteria resistant to other antibacterial drugs (for example, aminoglycosides, peptides, b-lactams, macrolides and tetracyclines), as well as to trimethoprim, sulfonamides and nitrofuran derivatives.
Pharmacokinetics
After local treatment of the eye, systemic absorption of ciprofloxacin is observed. Plasma drug levels are no more than 4.7 ng/ml (almost 450 times lower than the values recorded with a single oral dose of 0.25 g of ciprofloxacin).
Dosing and administration
Therapy for corneal ulcers.
Alox must be instilled around the clock (also at night) according to the scheme described below:
- 1st day: 2 drops in each eye at 15-minute intervals during the first 6 hours, and then in the same dosage at half-hour intervals;
- 2nd day: 2 drops at 1-hour intervals;
- in the period from day 3 to day 14: 2 drops with 4-hour breaks.
If necessary, the treatment course can be extended.
Superficial lesions of the eyes and eye appendages of bacterial origin.
Over the course of 2 days, 1-2 drops of the medicine are instilled into the conjunctival sac (during the day, at 2-hour intervals). Then 1-2 drops are used at 4-hour intervals until the symptoms of the disease disappear.
- Application for children
There is no information regarding the medicinal efficacy and safety of the drug when used in pediatrics, which is why it is not prescribed to children.
Use Alox during pregnancy
During breastfeeding and pregnancy, Alox is used only in cases where the probable benefit from its use outweighs the possible risks.
Contraindications
Contraindicated for use in cases of severe intolerance to quinolones or other components of the medication.
Side effects Alox
After instillation, discomfort and burning in the eye area, a sensation of a foreign object, conjunctival hyperemia, itching, as well as the appearance of a crust on the edges of the eyelids (scales or crystals) and an unpleasant taste may be observed.
Signs of allergy, keratitis/keratopathy, photophobia, eyelid swelling, nausea, corneal infiltration and lacrimation or decreased visual acuity may develop. Symptoms of intolerance may also occur.
In individuals with corneal ulcers who frequently used the drug, a white crystalline deposit was observed (it disappeared during therapy). This deposit does not have a negative effect on the patient and does not interfere with therapy.
Overdose
When used locally, the risk of overdose is very low. If an excess amount of the drug is administered, the eyes should be rinsed with running water.
Interactions with other drugs
Potentiation of the effect of ciprofloxacin is observed when combined with aminoglycosides, metronidazole, vancomycin, as well as with β-lactam antibiotics and clindamycin.
Storage conditions
Alox should be stored in a dark place, out of reach of children. Temperature indicators – no more than 25°C.
Shelf life
Alox can be used within a 24-month period from the date of manufacture of the therapeutic substance.
Analogues
The analogs of the drug are Tsiloksan, Ciprofloxacin with Tsipromed, and also Tsiproksol, Tsiprofarm with Tsiprolet and Floximed with Tsipronex.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Alox" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.