Gatifloxacin

Introduction: Gatifloxacin is an antibiotic used in the treatment of bacterial infections of the eye. It relieves the symptoms of the infection by stopping the further growth of the causative microorganisms.

How it works: Gatifloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibacterial which acts by inhibiting DNA synthesis in susceptible organisms via inhibition of both DNA gyrase (essential for bacterial reproduction) and topoisomerase IV (essential during bacterial cell division).

Important Information: For external use only. Complete the full course of treatment. It may cause short term blurring of vision. Do not wear contact lenses.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis
• Bacterial eye infections

Ophthalmic antibacterial drugs

Fluoroquinolone antibiotic

Gatifloxacin is an 8-methoxyfluoroquinolone anti-infective for topical ophthalmic use. The antibacterial action of Gatifloxacin results from inhibition of DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. DNA gyrase is an essential enzyme that is involved in the replication, transcription and repair of bacterial DNA. Topoisomerase IV is an enzyme known to play a key role in the partitioning of the chromosomal DNA during bacterial cell division.

Gatifloxacin inhibits DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV enzymes to prevent bacterial DNA synthesis, thereby stopping bacterial growth and reproduction.

Gatifloxacin 0.3%:

• Days 1 and 2: Instill one drop every two hours in the affected eye(s) while awake (up to 8 times daily)
• Days 3 through 7: Instill one drop up to 4 times daily while awake

Gatifloxacin 0.5% (1+ years):

• Day 1: Instill one drop every two hours while awake (up to 8 times)
• Days 2 through 7: Instill one drop two to four times daily while awake

* Use as directed by the registered physician

For external use only. Take it in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Hold the dropper close to the eye without touching it. Gently squeeze the dropper and place the medicine inside the lower eyelid.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Conjunctival irritation
• Increased lacrimation
• Burning sensation

Precautions:

• Do not wear contact lenses if you have signs of bacterial conjunctivitis.
• Avoid contaminating the applicator tip with material from the eye, fingers or other source.
• Apply pressure on the corner of the eye for about 1 minute after instilling.
• Wait for 5-10 minutes before delivering the next medication.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to Gatifloxacin, other quinolones, or any components
• Should not be injected subconjunctivally or introduced directly into the anterior chamber

Drug Interactions:

• Additive effect with drugs that prolong QT interval (antiarrhythmics, cisapride, chlorpromazine, moxifloxacin, etc.)
• Increased risk of blood glucose disturbances with drugs that alter blood glucose concentrations

Food Interactions: No interaction found/established.

Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects.

Use in Lactation: Probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited data suggests the drug does not represent significant risk to the baby.

Pediatric Use: Dosage available for children 1 year and older for Gatifloxacin 0.5%.

Geriatric Use: No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.

Renal & Hepatic Impairment: No interaction found/established (minimal systemic absorption due to topical use).

Overdose: An overdose of this medication is unlikely to threaten life.

Storage: Protect from light. Store in cool and dry place. Do not use more than 4 weeks after opening. Keep out of reach of children.

Gatifloxacin Eye Drops