Prevention of colonisation by gram negative organisms as part of a multi-antimicrobial regimen in patients with neutropenia, secondary to cytostatic therapy. Hypersensitivity to ofloxacin or related chemotherapeutic agents of the quinolone-derivative group, or any of the excipients. In children or adolescents in the growth phase. In patients with a history of tendon disorders related to fluoroquinolone administration. Tendinitis, less frequently observed, may occasionally lead to rupture, involving more particularly Achilles tendon, and occurring especially in elderly patients.
Rupture seems to be favoured by treatment with corticosteroids.
The onset of signs of tendinitis requires to stop the treatment, to rest both Achilles tendons by appropriate immobilization or special heel pieces, and to take orthopaedic advice. Ofloxacin may inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis , giving false-negative results, in the bacteriological diagnosis of tuberculosis. The serum concentration of ofloxacin should be monitored in patients with severe renal impairment and haemodialysis patients. Although this has not been reported, the possibility cannot be ruled out that fluoroquinolones may trigger an attack of porphyria in predisposed patients. It may be taken on an empty stomach or with meals.