Ofloxacin and Metronidazole combination oral suspension is widely used to treat bacterial and protozoal infections. The suspension form is often used for the treatment of infections in babies. Protozoans and bacteria are different in cell structure and size, and these infections need different types of treatment.

How Do Ofloxacin and Metronidazole Combination Oral Suspension Work? 

This oral suspension works by combining the benefits of two medications. The first medication that is a part of this combination is Ofloxacin, a type of fluoroquinolone antibiotic (large spectrum antibiotic). Metronidazole is a nitroimidazole type of antibiotic. Nitroimidazole antibiotics are a type of antibiotic that is most commonly used to treat anaerobic bacterial and parasitic infections. This medication in its oral suspension form is often prescribed to babies. 

How Does Ofloxacin Work? 

This medication works by preventing the bacteria from replicating. It does this by stopping the production of bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes. By stopping the production of these two enzymes, this also prevents the bacteria from repairing itself. 

How Does Metronidazole Work? 

This medication works by disrupting the DNA of anaerobic bacteria and protozoa by forming reactive metabolites.

Ofloxacin and Metronidazole Combination Oral Suspension For Babies 

Doctors give this oral suspension medication to babies for the following types of infections.

1. Gastrointestinal Infections or stomach-related infections: This includes both mild diarrhea and a severe form of diarrhea called Dysentery.

2. A patient takes it to treat parasitic infections such as amoebiasis and giardiasis. 

3. Further, a patient can also take it for bacterial infections of the digestive tract as well as other infections caused by bacteria. 

4. A doctor can give this medication to a patient to prevent a wide range of infections that may occur after surgery.

Dosage and Duration 

The recommended dosage is half a teaspoon twice daily for children below ten years. For children above 10 years, the recommended dosage is two to four teaspoons twice a day. The dosage of this medication depends upon the following factors – 

• Baby’s age 
• Baby’s weight 
• The severity of the infection 

Usually, doctors don’t give this medication to children below 1 year. The standard Dosage varies as follows according to age. 

Based on Age	Dosage
Between 1-6 years	5ml twice daily
Between 7 – 12 years of age	10ml twice daily

What if you Miss a Dose?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember it. In case the missed dose is too close to the next dose, do not take it and consult your doctor.

Always follow the doctor’s instructions concerning dosage and duration. Not completing the prescribed duration of the medication can lead to relapse or resistance.

Ofloxacin and Metronidazole Combination Oral Suspension – Side Effects 

 Some common side effects of this medication include nausea and vomiting. There are a few rare side effects as well. These are allergic reactions, abdominal pain, or dizziness. 

Ofloxacin and Metronidazole Combination Oral Suspension – Precautions

 This medication is not for viral infections such as colds or flu.

 For safe and effective use of this medication, consult a pediatrician before giving this medication to your baby. 

How to Store Ofloxacin and Metronidazole Combination Oral Suspension

Store the medication in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight. A person can use the original packaging for storing the medication. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. The storage instructions would also be there on the packaging. Carefully dispose of the unused medication in such a manner that it is not consumed by animals.

Frequently Asked Questions