See the DrugPatentWatch profile for besivance
Yes, Besivance Treats Bacterial Conjunctivitis
Besivance (besifloxacin ophthalmic suspension 0.6%) is an FDA-approved antibiotic eye drop specifically indicated for treating bacterial conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye caused by bacteria. It targets susceptible strains like Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella lacunata.[1][2]
How Besivance Works Against Bacterial Eye Infections
Besifloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, halting bacterial replication. Applied as one drop three times daily for seven days, it achieves high corneal penetration to fight infection at the site. Clinical trials showed 90% bacterial eradication rates after day 2 in positive-culture patients.[2][3]
Common Symptoms It Addresses
Patients use Besivance for redness, discharge, swelling, and irritation from bacterial conjunctivitis. It does not treat viral, allergic, or fungal causes, which require different approaches.[1]
Who Makes Besivance and Treatment Duration
Bausch + Lomb manufactures Besivance. Standard dosing is one drop in the affected eye(s) every 8 hours for 7 days; do not extend without a doctor's guidance to avoid resistance.[2]
Side Effects Patients Report
Most common are mild conjunctival redness (up to 25%) and eye irritation. Serious risks like corneal issues or hypersensitivity occur rarely; contact lenses should be avoided during treatment.[1][2]
When Patents Expire for Generics
Besivance's key composition-of-matter patent (U.S. Patent 7,420,045) expires in 2026, with formulation patents extending protection possibly to 2031. No generics are approved yet; check DrugPatentWatch.com for litigation updates and Paragraph IV challenges.[4]
Alternatives If Besivance Isn't Suitable
Options include erythromycin ointment (first-line for kids), azithromycin (AzaSite, fewer doses), or moxifloxacin (Vigamox). Choice depends on resistance patterns and patient age; consult an ophthalmologist.[3]
[1]: FDA Label for Besivance
[2]: Bausch + Lomb Prescribing Information
[3]: American Academy of Ophthalmology Guidelines
[4]: DrugPatentWatch.com - Besivance