What is Gatifloxacin ophthalmic?
Gatifloxacin, a fluoroquinolone antibacterial, is used to fight bacteria. Gatifloxacin (for the eye) is used for treating infections of the eye caused by bacteria. Gatifloxacin ophthalmic can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Gatifloxacin ophthalmic
If you experience any of the following: hives, difficulty breathing, a slow pulse, or fainting, get emergency medical attention.
Gatifloxacin can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Eye swelling, discomfort, crusting, or drainage may be signs of an infection.
- Any new or worsening problems with the eyes
Some of the most common side effects associated with gatifloxacin eye drops include:
- Mild itching, mild burning, redness, or irritation
- Watery eyes
- Eyelids that puff up
There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects. For medical advice regarding them.The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Please read all instructions listed on your medication's label or package carefully before beginning therapy. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.
Before you take this drug
If you are allergic to gatifloxacin and similar medications, such as ciprofloxacin (levofloxacin), lomefloxacin (lomefloxacin), moxifloxacin (norfloxacin), or levofloxacin (lomefloxacin), then you should avoid using gatifloxacin. Tell your doctor about any medical conditions you may have before using gatifloxacin. This medicine is not known to harm an unborn child.Notify your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or planning on being exposed.It is unknown if gatifloxacin ophthalmic can pass into breast milk or if it will harm a baby who is nursing. You should tell your doctor if your baby is breastfed. Gatifloxacin ophthalmic is not recommended for children younger than one year of age.
How to take Gatifloxacin ophthalmic?
Do not alter the instructions on your prescription. Use this medication only as directed.Never exceed the prescribed dosage or extend its use beyond what is specified.For the first few days, you may have to use eye drops every two hours. Then every four hours until the end of the treatment. You should follow your doctor's advice. Before using eye drops, wash your hands. How to apply eye drops
- To create a pocket, tilt your head slightly back and pull down on your lower eyelid with your dropper pointed downwards. For best results, ensure the dropper tip points downward. Squeeze out a few drops by looking up and away.
- Close your eyes without blinking, squinting, or moving your head. Press your finger gently on the inside corner for 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down into your tear duct.
- Only use the prescribed number of drops.
Avoid touching or placing directly on your eye the tip of any dropper that might contain germs; otherwise it could potentially pose severe vision impairment issues.If the liquid is discolored or contains particles, do not use it. For new medication, call your pharmacist. Store away from moisture or heat at room temperature. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. When not in use, keep the bottle tightly sealed.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for bacterial conjunctivitis:
0.3% solution:
Day 1 and 2: Apply 1 drop to the eye(s) affected every 2 hours while awake. Do this up to eight times daily.
Instill one drop into the affected eye(s) up to four times per day.
0.5% solution:
Day 1: Apply 1 drop to the eye(s) affected every 2 hours while awake. Do this up to eight times daily.
Instill one drop into the affected eye(s) 2–4 times a day while awake.
Use: To treat bacterial conjunctivitis caused by susceptible strains such as Staphylococcus epidermidis (S aureus), Streptococcus pneumoniae (S pneumoniae group), Haemophilus flues, Corynebacterium sp., S oralis, S propinquum, and S mitis.
The usual pediatric dose for bacterial conjunctivitis in children is:
One year old or older
0.3% solution:
Day 1 and 2: Apply 1 drop to the eye(s) affected every 2 hours while awake.Do this up to eight times daily.Instill one drop into the affected eye(s) up to four times per day.
0.5% solution:
Day 1: Apply 1 drop to the eye(s) affected every 2 hours while awake. Do this up to eight times daily.
Instill one drop into the affected eye(s) 2–4 times a day while awake.
Use: To treat bacterial conjunctivitis caused by susceptible strains S. aureus (including S. epidermidis), S. pneumoniae (including S. influenzae), C. propinquum, and S. oralis.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as you recall, take the missed dose. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses of gatifloxacin are not dangerous. Should someone accidentally consume medication, seek immediate medical assistance immediately. You can also call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
If you have an active eye infection, it is best to avoid wearing contact lenses. You should not take any other eye medication during the treatment with gatifloxacin unless you are told to by your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
The gatifloxacin that is used to treat the eyes will not be affected by other drugs taken orally or injected. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
