Zymar

 
Generic Name: gatifloxacin ophthalmic

Brands: Zymar

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What is the most important information I should know about Zymar?

· Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

· Apply light pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) after each drop to prevent the fluid from draining down the tear duct.

· If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor if you should wear them during treatment with Zymar.

 

What is Zymar?

· Zymar is an antibiotic.

· Zymar is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes.

· Zymar may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Zymar?

· Do not use Zymar if you have a viral or fungal infection in the eye. It is used to treat infections caused by bacteria only.

· Do not use Zymar if you have had an allergic reaction to it or other similar medicines in the past. Medicines similar to Zymar include gatifloxacin (Tequin), ciprofloxacin ophthalmic (Ciloxan), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), ofloxacin ophthalmic (Ocuflox), ofloxacin (Floxin), norfloxacin ophthalmic (Chibroxin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), levofloxacin ophthalmic (Quixin), levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), sparfloxacin (Zagam), trovafloxacin (Trovan), and moxifloxacin (Avelox).

· Zymar is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use Zymar without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· It is not known whether Zymar passes into breast milk. Do not use Zymar without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

 

How should I use Zymar?

· Use Zymar eye drops exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Wash your hands before using the eye drops.

· If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Zymar. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication.

· To apply the eye drops:     ·Shake the drops gently to be sure the medicine is well mixed. Tilt the head back slightly and pull down on the lower eyelid. Position the dropper above the eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close the eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down the tear duct..

· Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

· Do not use any eye drop that is discolored or has particles in it.

· Store Zymar at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle properly capped.

 

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

 

What happens if I overdose?

· An overdose of this medication is unlikely to threaten life. If an overdose is suspected or if the drops are ingested, call an emergency room or poison control center for advice.

 

What should I avoid while using Zymar?

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Zymar may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.

· If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Zymar. Ask your doctor if contact lenses can be reinserted after application of the medication.

· Do not use other eye drops or medications during treatment with Zymar unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

 

What are the possible side effects of Zymar?

· Serious side effects are not expected to occur during treatment with this medication.

· Some eye burning, stinging, irritation, itching, redness, or tearing; blurred vision; eyelid swelling or itching; or a bad taste in the mouth may occur. Continue to use Zymar and talk to your doctor about any side effects that you experience.

 

What other drugs will affect Zymar?

· Do not use other eye drops or medications during treatment with Zymar unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Zymar. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Zymar written for health professionals that you may read.

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