gentamicin ophthalmic Health Article

Generic name(s):

gentamicin ophthalmic

Brand name(s):

Garamycin Ophthalmic, Genoptic, Gentacidin, Gentak

What is the most important information I should know about gentamicin ophthalmic?

Do not touch the dropper or tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper or tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Apply light pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) after each drop to prevent the fluid from draining down your tear ducts.

What is gentamicin ophthalmic?

Gentamicin ophthalmic is an antibiotic.

Gentamicin ophthalmic is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes.

Gentamicin ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not use gentamicin ophthalmic?

Do not use gentamicin ophthalmic if you have a viral or fungal infection in your eye. It is used to treat infections caused by bacteria only. It is not known whether gentamicin ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Do not use gentamicin ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is also not known whether gentamicin ophthalmic passes into breast milk. Do not use gentamicin ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use gentamicin ophthalmic?

Use gentamicin ophthalmic eyedrops or ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before using the eyedrops or ointment.

To apply the eyedrops:

• Shake the drops gently to be sure the medicine is well mixed. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid. Position the dropper above your eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close your eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down your tear duct. If you are using more than one drop in the same eye or drops in both eyes, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops.

To apply the ointment:

• Hold the tube in your hand for a few minutes to warm it up so that the ointment comes out easily. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down gently on your lower eyelid. Apply a thin film of the ointment into your lower eyelid. Close your eye and roll your eyeball around in all directions for 1 to 2 minutes. If you are applying another eye medication, allow at least 10 minutes before the next application.

Do not touch the dropper or tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper or tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye. Do not use any eyedrop that is discolored or has particles in it. Store gentamicin ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle or tube properly capped.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect an overdose, wash the eye with water and call an emergency room or poison control center near you. If the drops or ointment have been ingested, drink plenty of fluid and call an emergency center for advice.