To return to the main entry click here.
What are gentamicin eye drops or ointment?
GENTAMICIN (Garamycin®) is an aminoglycoside antibiotic. Gentamicin eye drops or ointment treat superficial eye infections. You can also get eye preparations of gentamicin combined with prednisolone. Generic gentamicin eye preparations are available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an unusual or allergic reaction to gentamicin or other antibiotics, sulfites, foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Gentamicin eye drops or eye ointment are only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper or tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch: or, if using the ointment, squeeze the end of the tube to apply a thin layer of the ointment to the inside of the lower eyelid. Close the eye gently to spread the drops or ointment. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. Report burning or itching of the eyelids at once. Use your doses at regular intervals. It is important to use this medicine for the full course of treatment, even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your prescriber's advice.
What drug(s) may interact with gentamicin?
Do not use any other eye products without consulting your prescriber or health care professional. Check before stopping or starting any of your medicines or non-prescription products.
What should I watch for while taking gentamicin?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve in a few days.
A burning or stinging reaction that does not go away may mean you are allergic to this product. Stop using and call your prescriber or health care professional.
Gentamicin can make certain eye conditions worse. Only use it for conditions for which your prescriber or health care professional has prescribed.
To prevent the spread of infection, do not share eye products, or share towels and washcloths with anyone else.
What side effects may I notice from using gentamicin?
These are possible serious side effects with gentamicin:
• burning, stinging or irritation
Other serious side effects are rare from the use of eye products; they include:
• difficulty hearing
• dizziness
• increased thirst
• loss of balance
• muscle weakness
• nausea
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• ringing in the ears
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• blurred vision (usually temporary)
Let your prescriber or health care professional know about this side effect if it does not go away or if it annoys you.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store between 2 and 30 degrees C (36 and 86 degrees F); do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
