Sometimes when you wake up in the morning, your eyes are red, itchy, and you can't even open them, right? Or you feel a little pain and itching in your eyes and discomfort. When you have an eye infection caused by bacteria like this, your doctor may prescribe an eye solution called Gatifloxacin. So, in this article, we will talk about what exactly this medicine is, how to use it safely and correctly, and what things we need to be careful about when using this medicine.
What kind of medicine is Gatifloxacin?
Simply put, Gatifloxacin is a medicine used to treat bacterial infections of the eye. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called `quinolones.` Its main function is to kill the bacteria that cause eye infections.
It is important to remember that this medicine only works on bacterial infections. It will not work on eye infections caused by a virus (such as the red eyes that come with the common cold).
That's why when you have an eye problem, you should see a doctor instead of just taking your own medicine. He or she can diagnose the cause of the infection and prescribe the right medication. You can find this medication under the brand names Zymar or Zymaxid.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before your doctor prescribes Gatifloxacin for you, it is very important to inform him of some information about your health condition, as this will ensure your safety.
- Allergies: If you have an allergy, not only to Gatifloxacin, but also to other antibiotics in the fluoroquinolone class, any other medicine, food, dyes, or preservatives, be sure to tell your doctor.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is important to tell your doctor. Some medications can affect your baby. It is important for your doctor to be aware of this.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly. Follow the steps below.
1. Wash your hands thoroughly: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the medication to your eyes. This will help prevent germs from getting into your eyes.
2. Tilt your head back: While sitting in a chair or lying down in bed, tilt your head back slightly.
3. Pull the lower eyelid: Gently pull the lower eyelid down with your index finger, forming a small pouch.
4. Put the medicine drops: Do not let the dropper tip touch your eyes , fingertips, or anywhere else. Doing so can contaminate the medicine in the bottle. Put the number of drops your doctor prescribed into the bag you made.
5. Close your eyes: After applying the medication, slowly close your eyes for a few seconds. This will help the medication spread throughout your eyes. Do not close your eyes tightly or squint.
6. Use the medicine for the full duration: This is the most important thing. You should use this medicine for the full number of days prescribed by your doctor. You may feel better in two or three days. But even if you feel that way, don't stop taking it. If you do, the infection may come back.
If you give this medicine to children...
There are times when this medication is prescribed even for children. However, you should talk to your doctor about it and follow his instructions exactly.
What if the medicine is used too much?
If you accidentally put too much medicine in your eye, or if someone drinks it, do not panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
What do you do if you forget to take your medicine?
It is possible to forget to take your medicine at the right time. If this happens, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is very close to the time you remember (for example, it is within an hour or two), skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the right time. Never take a double dose.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Gatifloxacin can cause side effects in some people, although not everyone gets them. It is important to be aware of these.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergic reactions | If you experience skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or limbs (called angioedema ), or difficulty swallowing or breathing, stop taking the medicine immediately and seek medical advice. |
| Worsening of eye condition | If eye pain, redness, inflammation, or discharge is new or gets worse. |
| Blistering or peeling of the skin | If you experience redness, blistering, or peeling of the skin, including inside the mouth. |
| Usually not serious, but if it persists, tell your doctor. | |
| Blurry vision | Vision may be blurred for a short time after applying the medication. If you are driving or operating machinery, wait until your vision clears. |
| Minor eye irritation or itching | You may feel a slight burning sensation after applying the medicine. This usually goes away after a while. |
| Change in taste in the mouth | Some people may experience a different taste in their mouth. |
| Headache | Sometimes a slight headache may occur. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual or different, talk to your doctor about it.
How do you store and dispose of the medicine?
How should I store the medicine?
- Keep away from children and pets. These may be harmful to them.
- Store at room temperature (between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius). That means in a place that is not too hot or too cold.
- Do not refrigerate or freeze this.
- Do not use the medicine bottle after the expiration date.
How do you get rid of unnecessary medication?
It is not a good idea to simply throw expired or unwanted medications in the trash or flush them down the toilet.
- Check the medicine label or the leaflet inside to see if there are any instructions on how to remove it.
- If you're not sure, ask your doctor.
- If you are sure it is safe to throw away, empty the remaining liquid from the medicine bottle and mix it with something like used coffee grounds, soil, or cat litter. Then, put the mixture in a sealable bag or container and throw it in the trash. This is to prevent children or animals from ingesting it.
Take-Home Message
- Gatifloxacin is an antibiotic that is only given to treat eye infections caused by bacteria . It has no effect on viral infections.
- Use the medicine for the full duration prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you feel better.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the medicine. Do not let the top of the medicine bottle touch your eyes , hands, or anywhere else.
- If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing), stop taking the medicine immediately and seek medical advice.
- Store the medicine at room temperature, out of the reach of children and pets.


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