Besifloxacin — what it is and when it helps

If your eye is red, sticky, or producing yellow discharge, your doctor might prescribe besifloxacin. It’s a topical antibiotic (brand name Besivance) made as an eye drop. Doctors use it mainly for bacterial conjunctivitis — not for viral or allergic pink eye.

Besifloxacin belongs to the fluoroquinolone family and works by stopping bacteria from growing in the eye. Because it’s applied directly to the surface of the eye, systemic absorption is minimal. That means fewer whole-body side effects than oral antibiotics, but you still want to use it exactly as prescribed.

How to use besifloxacin drops

Typical dosing for adults is one drop in the affected eye(s) three times a day for seven days. Follow your doctor’s instructions if they differ. Don’t double up if you miss a dose — just use the next one at the usual time.

Tips for applying the drops: wash your hands, tilt your head back, pull the lower lid down and place one drop into the pocket. Close your eyes gently for 1–2 minutes and try pressing on the corner of your eye (the nasolacrimal duct) for about 30–60 seconds to limit drainage into your nose and throat. Wait at least five minutes before putting in other eye medicines or artificial tears. Keep the dropper tip clean — don’t touch your eye or lashes with it.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using besifloxacin and don’t put them back in until your doctor says it’s okay. Contacts can trap bacteria and slow healing.

Safety, side effects, and when to call

Common side effects are mild and local: eye irritation, burning or stinging, redness, blurred vision right after the drop, and an odd taste. These usually pass quickly. If you get severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, a rash, swelling, or breathing trouble, stop using the drops and seek emergency care — those can be signs of a serious reaction.

Besifloxacin is not helpful for viral or allergic conjunctivitis, so if symptoms don’t improve in a couple of days or worsen, check back with your clinician. Completing the full course is important even if your eye looks better after a day or two — stopping early can let bacteria survive and become resistant.

There’s limited information on use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tell your provider if you’re pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding so they can weigh risks and benefits. Also mention any known allergy to fluoroquinolones.

Because besifloxacin acts locally, it rarely has interactions with oral drugs. Still, separate any other eye drops by several minutes and follow your doctor’s directions about combining treatments.

If you have questions about dosing, costs, or whether besifloxacin is right for your eye problem, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Correct use helps you get better faster and reduces the chance of antibiotic resistance.