GENTAMICIN OINTMENT - OPHTHALMIC

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GENTAMICIN OINTMENT - OPHTHALMIC

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (jen-ta-MYE-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Garamycin

GENERIC NAME(S): gentamicin sulfate

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat bacterial infections (such as blepharitis, conjunctivitis) of the eye and the skin around the eyes (such as eyelids). It is also used to prevent infection after eye injury or surgery. It belongs to a class of drugs known as aminoglycoside antibiotics. Gentamicin works by killing the bacteria. This medication treats only bacterial eye infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.


How to use GENTAMICIN OINTMENT - OPHTHALMIC

HOW TO USE: To apply eye ointment, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the tip of the tube or let it touch your eye, eyelid, or any other surface. Apply to the eyes only. Do not swallow or inject. Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medication. Sterilize contact lenses according to the manufacturer's directions, and check with your doctor before you begin using them again. To apply eye ointments, tilt your head back, look up, and gently pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place a half-inch (1.3 centimeters) strip of ointment into the pouch as directed by your doctor. 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. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed. Wipe the tip of the ointment tube with a clean tissue to remove extra medication before recapping it. Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may direct you to use this medication more often at first, then use it less frequently as the infection improves. Do not increase your dose or use it more often than directed. Your doctor may prescribe gentamicin drops for use during the day and gentamicin ointment at bedtime. If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as drops or ointments), wait at least 5 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 times each day. Continue using it for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too soon may allow the bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Eye stinging/burning/redness or temporary blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. 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. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in other types of eye infections, including fungal infections. Stop using this medication and contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening eye symptoms (such as pain, swelling, thick discharge or pus). Rarely, gentamicin products used in the eye may be absorbed and may cause serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these rare but serious side effects occur: easy bruising/bleeding, mental/mood changes (such as hallucinations). 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), 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 gentamicin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as tobramycin); 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, especially of: contact lens use. 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. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: The effects of some drugs can change if you take other drugs or herbal products at the same time. This can increase your risk for serious side effects or may cause your medications not to work correctly. These drug interactions are possible, but do not always occur. Your doctor or pharmacist can often prevent or manage interactions by changing how you use your medications or by close monitoring. To help your doctor and pharmacist give you the best care, be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) before starting treatment with this product. While using this product, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any other medicines you are using without your doctor's approval. Keep a list of all the products you use. Share the list with your doctor and pharmacist to reduce your risk for serious medication problems.

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 GENTAMICIN OINTMENT - OPHTHALMIC

Gentamicin ointment is primarily used for the treatment of bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and blepharitis.

Gentamicin belongs to a class of antibiotics called aminoglycosides. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of proteins in the bacteria, thereby stopping their growth and eliminating the infection.

Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the ointment. Tilt your head back and pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze a thin strip of ointment (about 1/2 inch) into the pocket and then close your eyes gently. Wipe away any excess ointment.

It is generally advised to avoid wearing contact lenses during the treatment period, as the ointment may interact with the lenses and cause discomfort. Consult your doctor or healthcare professional for specific instructions.

Common side effects include temporary burning or stinging sensation in the eyes, blurred vision, itching, redness, and eye irritation. If any severe reactions occur, such as swelling or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical assistance.

Follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Generally, it is recommended to use the ointment several times a day for at least 7-10 days. Do not stop using it prematurely, even if your symptoms improve.

Yes, Gentamicin ointment can be used in children. However, it is important to consult a pediatrician for proper dosage instructions and to rule out any potential contraindications.

Gentamicin ointment is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding if prescribed by a healthcare professional. However, it is recommended to discuss any potential risks and benefits with your doctor before using it.

Gentamicin ointment is specifically formulated for ophthalmic use and should not be used for other types of infections without proper medical advice. Using it inappropriately may lead to ineffective treatment or the development of antibiotic resistance.

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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.