Genoptic (Gentamicin Sulfate) is a prescription medication used to treat eye infections caused by bacteria. These bacterial infections include conjunctivitis, infection of the cornea, corneal ulcers, infection of the edges of the eyelids, including hair follicles and glands and infection of the ears. The active ingredient in Genoptic is Gentamicin sulfate. Gentamicin sulfate belongs to the class of medication called Aminoglycosides antibiotics. It inhibits protein synthesis in susceptible bacteria by irreversibly binding to 30S ribosomal subunits. This mechanism of action stops gentamicin sulfate and kills the bacteria that caused the infections to the eyes or ears. Genoptic eye drops treat only bacterial eye/ear infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Genoptic from New Zealand and India (Genticyn Eye Drops) manufactured by Allergan in the strength of 0.3 %/10 ml and 3 mg/ml/5 ml eye drops. In addition, generic Gentamicin is available from the United Kingdom and Turkey (Gentagut) in the strength of 0.3 %/10 ml and 0.3 %/5 ml Eye/Ear Drops.
Get medical help immediately if you have any signs of an allergic reaction while taking Genoptic. The most common side effects of Genoptic may include:
• Burning sensation;
• Continuous eye itching;
• Constant tearing or lacrimation;
• Redness of the eyes;
• Slight irritation in the eyes
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, including:
• Blurred vision or difficulty with sight;
• Symptoms of allergic reaction such as rash, facial swelling and difficulty with breathing;
• Unable to open the eyes;
• Worsening eye symptoms (such as pain, swelling, thick discharge or pus)
Before using Gentamicin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, other aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as tobramycin), or if you have any other allergies. To apply Genoptic eye drops, you should wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the tip of the tube or let it touch your eye, eyelid, or any other surface. Apply the drops to the eyes only. Do not swallow or inject this medication. Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medication. Check with your doctor before you begin using them again. You should use Gentamicin eye drops as directed by your doctor, and do not stop without consulting your doctor. Inform your doctor if there are no changes in your symptoms despite regular use.
Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
• Have glaucoma;
• Have cataract;
• Have malignancy in the eyes;
• Have problems with your heartbeat;
• Have lung or breathing problems
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to get pregnant. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. It is unknown if Genoptic is safe and effective in children. Talk to your doctor before using Genoptic eye/ear drops for your children. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Gentamicin sulfate and other medications such as ciprofloxacin, aspirin and other ophthalmic solution. Keep your eye drops in a cool place where the temperature stays below 25°C. Do not freeze the eye drops.
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