BACITRACIN - OPHTHALMIC

BACITRACIN - OPHTHALMIC

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (BAS-i-TRAY-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Baciguent

GENERIC NAME(S): bacitracin

Uses

USES: This medication is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial eye infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medication treats only bacterial eye infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.


How to use BACITRACIN - OPHTHALMIC

HOW TO USE: Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer's directions, and check with your doctor before you begin using them again. To apply eye ointments, wash hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the tube tip or let it touch your eye. Tilt your head back, look upward, and gently pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place a 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.5 to 1.5 centimeter) strip of ointment into the pouch. Gently close the eye and roll the eyeball in all directions to spread the medication. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. If you are treating an infection of the eyelid, first clean all scales and crusts away from the area before applying the eye ointment on the eyelid. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed. Apply the medication usually 1 to 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Wipe the tip of the ointment tube with a clean tissue to remove extra medication before recapping it. If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: burning/swelling/redness in or around the eye. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a new fungal eye infection. Do not use this medication for longer than prescribed. Contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening symptoms. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), chest tightness, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using bacitracin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to neomycin; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for BACITRACIN - OPHTHALMIC

Bacitracin ophthalmic is an antibiotic eye ointment that is used to treat bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) and blepharitis.

Wash your hands before applying the ointment. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pouch. Squeeze a small amount (about half an inch) of ointment into the pouch. Blink your eye a few times to spread the ointment evenly. Do not touch the tip of the tube to prevent contamination.

Follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Typically, Bacitracin ophthalmic is used 3 to 4 times per day, or as directed by your healthcare professional.

No, Bacitracin ophthalmic is only effective against bacterial infections and should not be used for viral or fungal eye infections.

Common side effects may include mild irritation or burning in the eyes. If you experience any severe side effects or an allergic reaction, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

It is generally recommended to remove contact lenses before applying Bacitracin ophthalmic. Consult with your eye doctor for specific instructions.

Use Bacitracin ophthalmic for the full prescribed duration, even if your symptoms improve. Discontinuing early may lead to the return of the infection.

Bacitracin ophthalmic can be used in children or infants but only under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.