Zymar (Gatifloxacin)

Description

Indications

Gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution is prescribed to treat bacterial conjunctivitis (commonly known as pinkeye) in adults and children aged 1 year and older. This condition involves an infection of the membrane covering the outside of the eyeballs and the inside of the eyelids. Gatifloxacin belongs to a class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. Its mechanism of action involves killing the bacteria responsible for the infection.

Uses and Dosage

Gatifloxacin is available as an ophthalmic solution (liquid) designed to be applied to the eyes. The usual recommended dosage is instilling the solution every 2 hours while awake, up to eight times a day, for the initial 2 days.

Subsequently, the frequency is reduced to two to four times a day for the next 5 days. Administer gatifloxacin eye drops at approximately the same times daily.

Adhere to the prescribed directions and do not use gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution in excess or less than recommended by your doctor.

Expect an improvement in your symptoms during the course of treatment. Contact your doctor if your symptoms persist, worsen, or if you experience additional issues with your eyes during treatment.

Continue using gatifloxacin eye drops until you finish the entire prescription, even if your symptoms improve. Ceasing the use of gatifloxacin eye drops prematurely might result in an incomplete cure of the infection, and the bacteria may develop resistance to antibiotics.

To administer the eye drops, the following steps should be followed:

1. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
2. Do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface, and ensure that it is kept clean.
3. Tilt the head back and pull down the lower lid of the eye using the index finger to form a pocket.
4. Hold the dropper as close to the eye as possible without making contact, and brace the remaining fingers against the face.
5. Squeeze the dropper gently to instill a single drop in the pocket created by the lower eyelid while looking upwards.
6. Remove the index finger from the lower eyelid and keep the eye closed for 2-3 minutes while tilting the head down.
7. Apply gentle pressure to the tear duct using a finger.
8. Use a tissue to wipe off any excess liquid from the face.
9. Wash hands to remove any residual medication.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• red, irritated, itchy, or teary eyes
• blurred vision
• eye pain
• eye discharge
• swollen eyelids
• broken blood vessels in the eyes
• headache
• unpleasant taste

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• rash
• hives
• itching
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• hoarseness

Caution

• Before using gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, quinolone antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin), or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other issues.
• Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.
• After applying the eye drops, your vision may be temporarily blurred. Avoid activities such as driving, operating machinery, or any task requiring clear vision until you can do so safely.
• If you are pregnant, use this medication only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Zymar is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Zymar eye drops:
  • 0.30 %

FAQ

Can I use Zymar as ear drops?

No, you shouldn’t apply Zymar drops anywhere other than your eyes as directed by your provider.

Can I use Zymar for styes?

Don’t use Zymar for styes without first speaking to your optometrist or ophthalmologist. Zymar is only FDA-approved to treat bacterial conjunctivitis.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/gatifloxacin/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/gatifloxacin-ophthalmic-route/description/drg-20063988
3. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/zymar
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-75079/zymar-ophthalmic-eye/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a605012.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/sfx/zymar-side-effects.html