Indications
Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution is an antibiotic eye drop medication used to treat bacterial infections of the eye, specifically bacterial conjunctivitis. It contains the active ingredient gatifloxacin, which is a quinolone antibiotic that works by killing the bacteria causing the infection.
Use and Dosage
Zymaxid is administered as a sterile ophthalmic solution for topical administration into the eye and is prescribed for patients ages one and older.
To use Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution, first, wash your hands, then remove the cap from the bottle that contains the eye drops. Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the bottle upside down over your eye and gently squeeze one drop of the solution into the pocket formed by the lower eyelid. Close your eyes for a few seconds to allow the drops to be absorbed. If you have been instructed to use the eye drops in both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye. Be sure to replace the cap on the bottle after each use.
Follow your doctor's instructions on how often to use the eye drops and how many days to continue treatment. Do not stop using the medication early as it can result in a return of the infection.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution (Gatifloxacin):
- Changes in taste
- Eye irritation or pain
- Worsening of conjunctivitis
Serious Side Effects of Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution (Gatifloxacin):
- Crusting or drainage from the eye
- Difficulty breathing
- Eye swelling
- Fainting
- Hives
- New or worsening eye problems
- Serious eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights
- Serious heart symptoms such as fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats; fluttering in your chest; shortness of breath; and sudden dizziness, lightheartedness, or passing out
- Severe discomfort
- Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, arm or leg weakness, trouble walking, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady, very stiff muscles, high fever, profuse sweating, or tremors
- Slow heart rate
- Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat
- Weak pulse
Forms and Strengths
Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution (Gatifloxacin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution: Ophthalmic Solution
- 0.50%
Cautions
- Pediatric use: Zymaxid should be used with caution in children, as its safety and efficacy have not been studied in the population.
- Hypersensitivity reactions: Use of Zymaxid can cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, and patients with a history of hypersensitivity to quinolones should not use the medication.
- Topical use only: Zymaxid is a topical ophthalmic solution and should not be used for any other purpose. It should not be ingested or applied to any part of the body other than the eye.
- Concomitant use with steroids: Patients who are using topical corticosteroids should use them at least 5 minutes before using Zymaxid ophthalmic solution.
- Interaction with other medications: Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all the medications they are taking, as some medications may interact with Zymaxid, leading to possible negative effects.
- Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney problems: The use of gatifloxacin may cause liver or kidney function abnormalities. Patients with pre-existing liver or kidney problems should use Ophthalmic Solution with caution.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight: Patients who use Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution may experience increased sensitivity to sunlight, so they should avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or bright light.
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding: The safety of gatifloxacin during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Therefore, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should use Ophthalmic Solution only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
- Contact lenses: Contact lenses should not be worn while using Zymaxid Ophthalmic Solution, as they may absorb the medication and reduce its effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Zymaxid be used to treat viral or fungal eye infections?
No, Zymaxid is an antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections of the eye and is not effective against viral or fungal infections.
Can Zymaxid be used in children?
The safety and efficacy of Zymaxid in children have not been established. It should be used with caution in pediatric patients.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Zymaxid?
If you miss a dose of Zymaxid, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Can Zymaxid cause blurred vision?
Yes, Zymaxid may cause blurred vision or other vision changes. Patients should use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery until vision clears.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/zymaxid
- https://www.1mg.com/drugs/zymaxid-ophthalmic-solution-146232
- https://www.rxlist.com/zymaxid-drug.htm
- https://www.goodrx.com/gatifloxacin/what-is
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=1160b16c-929a-4e85-9c0b-1d8c96a7678b
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-154180/zymaxid-ophthalmic-eye/details
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