What is this medicine?
GENTAMICIN (jen ta MYE sin) is an aminoglycoside antibiotic. It is used to treat certain kinds of bacterial eye infections.
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What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
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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?
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This medicine is 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 tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. 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 ointment. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. 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 the advice of your doctor or health care professional.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
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If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
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Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without talking to your doctor or health care professional.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better after 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 doctor or health care professional.
This medicine can make certain eye conditions worse. Only use it for conditions for which your doctor or health care professional has prescribed.
To prevent the spread of infection, do not share eye products, towels, and washcloths with anyone else.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-burning, stinging or irritation
-difficulty hearing or ringing in the ears
-dizziness
-increased thirst
-loss of balance
-muscle weakness
-nausea
-pain or difficulty passing urine
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-blurred vision (usually temporary)
Where should I keep my medicine?
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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.
Information on use before, during and after pregnancy.
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FIRST Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
SECOND Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
THIRD Trimester
Class C - Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. OR No animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
Lactation
Compatible - This drug is generally safe to take by nursing mothers.
