Generic
Natamycin 5% Eye prep
6 brands available in the market
At a glance
Natamycin 5% Eye prep is an antifungal medication used for fungal eye infections. It kills fungi by destroying their cell membrane.
Description
Natamycin is a polyene antifungal antibiotic that acts by increasing cell membrane permeability in susceptible fungi. It is active against a variety of yeast and filamentous fungi.
Indications
- Fungal keratitis
- Fungal blepharitis and conjunctivitis
Therapeutic class
Ophthalmic Antifungal
Pharmacological class
Polyene Antifungal Antibiotic
Pharmacology
Natamycin increases cell membrane permeability in susceptible fungi, causing cellular contents to leak out and killing the fungus.
Mechanism of action
Treats fungal eye infections by destroying fungal cell membranes.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Eye Drops):
- Fungal keratitis: 1 drop in conjunctival sac at 1-2 hour intervals; reduce to 6-8 times/day after 3-4 days; continue 14-21 days or until resolution
- Fungal blepharitis & conjunctivitis: 1 drop 4-6 times daily
Administration
- Do not touch dropper tip to eye
- Instill in lower eyelid
- Wipe off extra liquid
- Remove contact lenses before use (reinsert after 15 minutes)
- Wait 5-10 minutes before next medication
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Eye irritation
Precautions & warnings
- Consult doctor if no improvement in 2 weeks or symptoms worsen
- Caution while driving or using machines (may cause blurred vision)
- Remove contact lenses
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any components
Drug interactions
- May increase spread of fungal infection when used with topical corticosteroids
Food interactions
No food interactions (eye drops).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Natamycin may be unsafe during pregnancy; animal studies show evidence of fetal harm.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Information regarding use during breastfeeding is not available; consult doctor.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children.
Geriatric use
Elderly may require dose adjustment.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Overdose effects
Limited information on overdose; symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Natamycin 5% Eye Drops