Ordent

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Ordent

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Ordent

Property Description
Active Ingredients Ofloxacin and Ornidazole
Form Oral tablet
Pharmacological Class Antimicrobial agent, Antibiotic, Antiprotozoal
General Purpose Treatment of mixed bacterial and parasitic infections
Origin Synthetic (derived from chemical synthesis)

Ordent is a prescription combination medicine classified as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, specifically formulated to address infections caused by both bacteria and protozoa. This fixed-dose combination is a synthetic product delivered as an oral tablet. It is primarily recognized for its strategic positioning in treating mixed infections where both categories of pathogens are suspected or confirmed, thereby offering a comprehensive approach. Popular brands containing this combination include Oflotas OZ and O2 Tablet, underscoring the widespread use of this formulation.


What Type of Medicine is Ordent?

Ordent belongs to the pharmacological class of antibiotics and antiprotozoal medications, reflecting its dual capacity to eliminate two distinct types of microbial threats. The drug's composition strategically pairs a potent fluoroquinolone with a powerful nitroimidazole derivative, a combination recognized for its effectiveness against a wide spectrum of susceptible microorganisms. Ofloxacin, the fluoroquinolone component, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent. This supports Ofloxacin’s role in effectively killing a wide range of susceptible bacteria. Its identity as an oral tablet means the medicine is intended for systemic action throughout the body.


Composition: The Combination of Ofloxacin and Ornidazole

The efficacy of Ordent is derived from its two distinct active ingredients: Ofloxacin and Ornidazole. Ofloxacin is an antibiotic belonging to the fluoroquinolone class, while Ornidazole is a nitroimidazole derivative and an established antiprotozoal agent. The combination of these two agents is effective against mixed aerobic and anaerobic infections. This dual capacity is a differentiating factor from single-agent therapies, meaning the medicine is designed to neutralize both bacterial and parasitic threats simultaneously. This co-formulation leverages the individual strengths of the components—Ofloxacin's action against aerobic bacteria and Ornidazole's effectiveness against anaerobic bacteria and parasitic protozoa.


General Therapeutic Purpose and Dual Action

The general therapeutic purpose of Ordent is to provide robust eradication against a spectrum of microbial agents implicated in bacterial infections and parasitic infections. This is achieved through a dual-action strategy: Ofloxacin exerts a powerful bactericidal effect by disrupting bacterial DNA, and Ornidazole damages the genetic material of susceptible protozoa, effectively eliminating these pathogens. This approach is intended to successfully clear infections where the causative agent may be complex or unidentified, providing a single, comprehensive means of microbial control.

What side effects are possible with Ordent?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Ordent is a combination medication containing Ofloxacin and Ornidazole. The safety profile is based on reported adverse reactions and official regulatory warnings associated with its active components.

Common Adverse Reactions The most frequently reported side effects, classified as common in clinical reporting, affect the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. These may include:

  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
  • Itching and Vaginal inflammation

Serious and Clinically Significant Risks Rare, but serious, adverse effects have been associated with fluoroquinolone antibiotics like Ofloxacin. Immediate medical attention is required for signs of a severe allergic reaction (such as widespread rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing). Other serious concerns include tendon inflammation or rupture, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), and central nervous system effects such as seizures or confusion.

Restrictions and Special Considerations

Population / Condition Safety Status
Pregnancy Safety is not established; use requires careful assessment where benefit outweighs potential risk.
Breastfeeding Generally considered unsafe due to the drug components passing into breast milk and theoretical risk to the infant’s developing joints.
Kidney / Liver Impairment Caution is necessary; dose adjustments may be required in patients with severe disease.
Alcohol Consumption Contraindicated; concurrent use may significantly increase the risk of adverse neurological effects like severe dizziness and drowsiness.
Known Allergy Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Ofloxacin, Ornidazole, or any quinolone or nitroimidazole antimicrobial agent.

The medication may cause dizziness and drowsiness. Patients should not drive or operate heavy machinery until they are aware of how the medicine affects them. Prolonged exposure to sunlight or UV radiation should be minimized due to a potential for increased photosensitivity.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The regulatory documentation for Ordent (Ofloxacin and Ornidazole) overdose focuses on specific systemic manifestations and mandatory emergency actions. Overexposure may lead to severe Central Nervous System (CNS) effects, including somnolence, trembling, confusion, and potentially convulsions or psychotic reactions. Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea and vomiting, may also present in a severe form.

Life-threatening outcomes documented in the labeling involve the cardiovascular system, with risks of QT interval prolongation, ventricular arrhythmias, and Torsades de pointes. Other severe risks include acute liver failure and structural issues like aortic aneurysm or dissection. Older patients and those with underlying liver disorders are noted in official sources to be at increased risk for these severe outcomes.

Regulatory guidance mandates that individuals must seek immediate medical attention or go to the emergency department of the closest hospital if an overdose is suspected or if severe symptoms, such as sudden chest or back pain, occur. Management is officially directed toward symptomatic treatment, which includes ECG monitoring due to cardiotoxicity risk and the use of diazepam if cramps develop, as no specific antidote is known for the Ornidazole component.

Therapeutic Uses of Ordent

What Ordent Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Ordent is a combination antimicrobial agent commonly used to provide symptomatic support for conditions involving susceptible bacteria and protozoa. This dual-action approach is relevant in clinical contexts involving heightened systemic burden and the empirical treatment of mixed aerobic-anaerobic infections.


The medication is applied in addressing symptom clusters that create noticeable physiological strain across multiple domains, including: acute diarrhea and dysentery, urinary tract infections (UTIs), pelvic and gynecological infections, and lesions like infected diabetic foot ulcers in the skin and soft tissue.

It helps improve day-to-day comfort by targeting the microbial causes of these conditions. “It is relevant in settings where symptoms may intensify and supportive relief is appropriate to ease the overall burden of distress.”

Quick Fact: Symptomatic Support for Mixed Infections

Quick Fact: Symptomatic Support for Mixed Infections

Ordent is primarily used in situations where symptoms suggest co-infection by both bacteria and parasites, providing supportive relief that assists with maintaining functional stability during acute episodes.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Ordent?

The population eligibility for Ordent (Ofloxacin and Ornidazole combination) is strictly defined by regulatory documents, which establish groups for whom the medicine is contraindicated and groups where use requires caution. Use is generally documented for adult patients for the treatment of mixed infections.

Absolute Contraindications (Must Not Use)

Contraindicated Group
Patients with known hypersensitivity to Ofloxacin, Ornidazole, any other fluoroquinolone antibacterials, or excipients.
Children or growing adolescents (typically under 18 years), due to the potential risk of joint cartilage damage.
Pregnant women and breastfeeding women (use is contraindicated).
Patients with a history of tendinitis/tendon rupture linked to fluoroquinolones.
Patients with a history of epilepsy or a lowered seizure threshold.
Patients with active renal disease or hepatic cirrhosis.

Restricted or Conditional Use (Use with Caution)

Restricted Population
Patients with renal insufficiency or impaired liver function (non-cirrhosis).
Patients with known risk factors for QT interval prolongation (cardiac risk).
Patients with a history of psychotic disorder or Myasthenia Gravis.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Ordent (Ofloxacin/Ornidazole) can interact with several medicinal products and substances. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all co-administered medications, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Contraindicated and Cautionary Combinations

Classification Interacting Agents (Examples) Interaction Note
Contraindicated Alcohol Consumption of alcohol is unsafe as it may severely increase central nervous system (CNS) side effects, such as dizziness and drowsiness.
Increased Risk Warfarin, Rivaroxaban (Anticoagulants) Increased risk of bleeding; close monitoring of coagulation tests (e.g., PT/INR) is necessary.
Avoid/Separate Timing Antacids (Aluminum/Magnesium hydroxide), Calcium-rich products These agents can interfere with the absorption of the antibiotic components, potentially reducing effectiveness. Dosage should be spaced apart.
Increased Risk Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Phenytoin, Carbamazepine Concurrent use may increase the risk of CNS excitation and neurological side effects.
Specific Agents Escitalopram, Vecuronium, Ethinyl Estradiol, Corticosteroids, Quinidine, Aspirin, Antidiabetic drugs Official labeling indicates these specific medicinal products should generally not be used in combination due to defined risks, including effects on glucose levels and cardiac rhythm (QT prolongation risk).

Disease/Condition Context

Use of this medication requires caution in patients with pre-existing CNS disorders, known QT prolongation or other heart conditions, severe renal impairment, or unmanaged diabetes, as these conditions can heighten the risk or severity of drug-related side effects.

Mechanism of Action

Mechanism 1: Disrupting the Core Bacterial Genetic Machinery

This mechanism focuses on the Ofloxacin component, which acts by inhibiting the bacterial enzymes DNA Gyrase (Topoisomerase II) and Topoisomerase IV. By blocking these essential proteins, the compound interferes with the pathogen's ability to maintain and replicate its DNA, triggering irreparable damage to the microbial genome. This sequence produces a bactericidal effect and results in the termination of microbial cell integrity in susceptible aerobic and facultative anaerobic microbial cells.

Mechanism 2: Reductive Activation Against Anaerobes and Protozoa

The Ornidazole mechanism relies on the unique, low-oxygen internal environment of protozoa and anaerobic bacteria. Within these pathogens, microbial enzymes convert Ornidazole into highly reactive cytotoxic free radicals. These radicals chemically destroy the pathogen’s DNA and other vital structures, resulting in a cidal effect against susceptible anaerobic and parasitic threats.

Mechanistic Complementarity for Comprehensive Control

The combination utilizes the non-overlapping actions of its components: Ofloxacin acts on genetic processes in aerobic bacteria, while Ornidazole acts on anaerobic/protozoal DNA via reductive activation. This mechanistic complementarity ensures simultaneous cidal effects across distinct pathogen groups in mixed microbial scenarios. The final physiological outcome is the reduction of the pathogen burden across multiple microbial classes.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Ordent

Ordent, a fixed-dose combination containing Ofloxacin 200 mg and Ornidazole 500 mg per tablet, is intended for oral administration as a structured course of treatment. The use of this medicine is based on instructions detailing standardized administration principles.


The standard adult regimen involves taking one tablet twice daily (B.I.D.), generally at regular intervals. The tablet must be swallowed whole with sufficient water and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken. Administration is advised to be taken with food or during meal times to support tolerance and absorption.


Administration Constraints and Duration

To ensure proper absorption of the Ofloxacin component, the medicine must be administered separated from certain products. Specifically, administration should be spaced by at least two hours from preparations containing polyvalent cations, such as antacids (containing aluminum or magnesium), or supplements containing iron or zinc.

The treatment course is generally time-bound, typically lasting between 5 and 10 days, depending on the specific condition being addressed. The complete course is followed for a minimum of three days after the resolution of clinical symptoms.


Official Dose Modification Principles

Required dose modifications exist for the individual components in certain populations. For the Ofloxacin component, dose adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment. For the Ornidazole component, the dosing interval is required to be doubled in patients presenting with severe hepatic impairment to manage systemic exposure. These principles establish the high-level framework for using the medicine across varied patient contexts.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of Studies for Ordent

This section provides an overview of the clinical research that has examined the Ofloxacin and Ornidazole combination, focusing strictly on the types of studies conducted and the outcomes that researchers measured, without offering advice or interpreting the findings as claims of benefit.


Evidence for Treating Mixed Aerobic and Anaerobic Infections

The research landscape for Ordent includes studies related to mixed aerobic and anaerobic infections, which have primarily been addressed through short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews. Studies were conducted in adult populations requiring initial treatment where both bacterial and protozoal pathogens were investigated. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort and the status of the infection at the end of the treatment period.

Research for Acute Diarrhea and Dysentery

Research exploring the treatment of acute diarrhea and dysentery has included studies of Ordent, such as active-controlled trials and meta-analyses. These studies monitored outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, such as how stool frequency and consistency changed over time, as well as the overall duration of the acute episode. Research highlights changes measured during the study period, particularly concerning the time required for symptom evolution.

Studies Examining Urinary Tract, Pelvic, and Soft Tissue Infections

Research has examined this combination in studies related to Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), pelvic infections, and complex diabetic foot and soft tissue lesions. For UTIs, studies monitored changes in symptoms and microbiological clearance. For soft tissue lesions, researchers evaluated wound healing rates and outcomes related to major clinical events.

The Overall Research Landscape: Areas of Uncertainty

The overall body of research helps show what has been observed so far, but several limitations are noted. Comparative evidence is lacking in many contexts, making it difficult to clearly define the incremental benefit of combining Ofloxacin and Ornidazole compared to using a single, appropriate antimicrobial agent. Additionally, there is limited information for long-term outcomes, which is critical for fully understanding the recurrence risk after treatment.

Key Studies & References

  1. MICRO LABS LIMITED, INDIA Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) for Ornidazole 500mg & Ofloxacin 200mg Tablets
  2. Comparison of Ofloxacin & Ornidazole with Probiotic versus Doxycycline & Metronidazole for the Outpatient Treatment of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
  3. Fluoroquinolones for the Treatment of Urinary Tract Infection: A Review of Clinical Effectiveness, Cost-Effectiveness, and Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Ordent (FAQ)

Q: Is Ordent the same type of medicine as [similar common drug name]?

A: Ordent is described in official regulatory information as a fixed-dose combination medicine. This means it contains two distinct active ingredients: Ofloxacin, which is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, and Ornidazole, which is a nitroimidazole derivative. This dual composition is a key factor that differentiates it from single-agent therapies.


Q: Do I need to avoid certain foods or drinks while taking Ordent?

A: According to official product information, this medicine can generally be taken with or without food. However, official information advises against consuming alcohol while taking Ordent due to the risk of increased side effects. Additionally, it is usually recommended to take the medicine separated from certain vitamin or mineral supplements.


Q: Can Ordent be used by elderly patients?

A: Regulatory documents state that Ordent can be used by older adults, but caution is necessary. Official warnings indicate that patients over 60 years old may have an increased risk of tendon problems associated with the Ofloxacin component. Furthermore, official information notes that dose adjustment principles exist for reduced kidney function in older adults.


Q: How is Ordent different from other treatments for its main use?

A: Regulatory rationale indicates that the main difference is its design as a fixed-dose combination. This combination is specifically intended to provide broad coverage against both aerobic bacteria and anaerobic/protozoal infections simultaneously. This combination approach is noted in regulatory documents as its unique therapeutic positioning.


Q: How does Ordent affect my daily routine?

A: The medicine is typically taken twice daily, often with meals. Regulatory documents advise caution regarding activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. This is because potential central nervous system side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, or confusion are known to affect the ability to perform these tasks.


Q: Is Ordent subject to any special regulatory restrictions?

A: Yes. Due to the potential for serious, long-lasting adverse reactions like nerve damage, the Ofloxacin component is subject to special regulatory restrictions in some regions. Official warnings indicate that, due to these risks, Ofloxacin-containing medicines are generally reserved for use when other standard antibiotics are considered inappropriate.


Q: What is the definition of a serious side effect of Ordent?

A: In regulatory terms, serious side effects are defined by the severe impact they may have on a patient. These include reactions that are disabling, long-lasting, and potentially irreversible, such as nerve damage or issues affecting the tendons, muscles, or joints. Such side effects are those that may require immediate medical attention.


Q: How quickly does Ordent typically start working?

A: Official pharmacokinetic data describes how quickly the medicine enters the body. The Ofloxacin component is typically absorbed and reaches its maximum concentration in the bloodstream within approximately one to two hours after taking an oral dose.


Q: How long does the effect of Ordent last?

A: The duration of action is related to the elimination half-life of its components. Official product information states that the half-life for Ofloxacin is approximately four to five hours, while the Ornidazole component is longer, at about 12 to 13 hours.


Q: Is it normal to feel tired after taking Ordent?

A: Yes, feeling unusually tired, weak, or fatigued is a possible side effect that has been listed in regulatory documents for the components of this medicine. If this symptom is persistent or severe, this symptom should be discussed with a healthcare professional.


Q: Is Ordent habit-forming or addictive?

A: No. Based on regulatory information and classification, Ordent is an antimicrobial medicine. It is not listed as having any habit-forming or addictive properties.


Q: What happens if I miss taking Ordent for a day?

A: Regulatory documents provide general guidance for a missed dose: if a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. If that is the case, the missed dose should be skipped entirely, and the regular schedule should be resumed. The guidance also cautions against taking a double dose to make up for a missed one.


Q: Does Ordent affect blood pressure?

A: Yes, changes in blood pressure are listed as rare or infrequently reported side effects of the Ofloxacin component of this medicine. These changes can include both hypotension (a drop in blood pressure) and hypertension (a rise in blood pressure).


Q: What should I do if a side effect seems unusual?

A: Regulatory guidelines advise stopping the medicine and immediately contacting a healthcare provider if there are signs of a serious side effect. This includes symptoms such as pain or swelling in a tendon, or any indication of nerve damage.


Q: Is Ordent available as a generic medication?

A: Yes, the active ingredients that make up the medicine, Ofloxacin and Ornidazole, are chemically identified as generic medications. These ingredients are combined to form the fixed-dose product.


Q: Does Ordent require a special diet while using it?

A: No. Official product information reports that no clinically relevant interactions have been noted with general food consumption. Therefore, a specialized or restrictive diet is typically not required while a patient is using this medicine.


Q: Is it safe to stop taking Ordent suddenly?

A: Regulatory instructions emphasize the importance of completing the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve quickly. Stopping the medicine too soon may result in the infection not being fully cleared. Discontinuation should only occur under the supervision of a healthcare professional.


Q: What does the term 'use conditions' mean for Ordent?

A: In regulatory documents, the term "use conditions" generally refers to the official Therapeutic Indications or Conditions of Use. This section defines the specific infections or clinical situations for which the medicine has been formally approved and for which its effectiveness has been established by research.


Q: Can Ordent interfere with lab test results?

A: Yes. Regulatory warnings indicate that the Ofloxacin component may cause false-positive results in urine screening tests for opiates. Additionally, it may affect the reliability of certain laboratory tests, including those measuring coagulation (blood clotting) and liver function.

How should Ordent be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Ordent (Ofloxacin and Ornidazole tablets) must be stored according to strict regulatory guidelines to maintain its stability and effectiveness. The medicine is required to be stored at a temperature not exceeding 30 C and kept from freezing.

Protection and Handling

  • Environmental Control: The tablets must be protected from light and moisture.
  • Container Rules: The medicine must be kept in a closed container or its original packaging.
  • Child Safety: It is mandatory to keep Ordent out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Stability: The product must not be used after the stated expiry date.

Disposal Instructions

Disposal must follow local regulatory requirements. Unused or expired Ordent should not be disposed of via wastewater or regular household waste and should be managed through approved disposal channels, often requiring consultation with a pharmacist.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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