Gentamicin is a substance obtained from culturing microbes called Micromonospora purpurea. A water-soluble aminoglycoside antibiotic called gentamicin sulfate is used as the active ingredient for topical ophthalmic solutions such as GENOPTIC (brand name). Gentamicin sulfate ophthalmic solution is a sterile anti-infective medication to treat certain types of eye infections. When used properly, gentamycin sulfate is a safe and effective drug.

What Is Gentamicin Sulfate Used For?

Gentamicin sulfate is an antibiotic drug used to treat bacterial infection of the eye and the tissues around it. These include conditions such as conjunctivitisandblepharitis. It may also be used to prevent eye infection after surgery or injury. Gentamicin belongs to the aminoglycoside class of antibiotic drugs and works by killing bacteria. It is not effective against other types of infections such as fungal or viral infections.

What Should Be Known Before Using Gentamicin Sulfate?

It is important to tell your doctor/pharmacist if you have any allergies to gentamicin sulfate, aminoglycoside antibiotic like tobramycin, or other drugs. This ophthalmic product may contain other ingredients that may cause an allergic reaction or side effect.

Discuss your medical history with the doctor/pharmacist before using Gentamicin sulfate ophthalmic solution, especially if you are using contact lenses.

You may experience temporary blurring of vision after applying this drug. Avoid driving, using machinery, or doing any activity that requires accurate vision until you’re sure you can do these activities safely.

If you are having surgery, tell the doctor about the products you are using, including prescription/nonprescription drugs and health supplements.

If you are pregnant, ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of using the drug and use only when needed. Gentamycin may pass into your breast milk, so consult your healthcare provider before using it.

How to Use Gentamicin Sulfate Safely

• Use gentamicin sulfate only as your doctor recommends. Check the medication label for dosing instructions.
• Gentamicin may also be administered as an injection at a hospital or at your doctor's clinic. Instructions will be given to you if you need to use gentamicin at home. Be sure that you understand how to use it and follow procedures taught to you when using it. Contact your doctor if you need to ask questions.
• Take extra fluids when using gentamicin solution.
• Don’t use the solution if it is cloudy, discolored, or contains particles. Discard cracked/damaged vials. Keep this drug out of the children’s reach.
• Be careful not tomix gentamicin sulfate with other antibiotics like cephalosporins or penicillins, since these may inactivate gentamicin. Administer these drugs separately.
• If you miss your dose of gentamicin, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for your next scheduled dose, just take it as usual and do not take a double dose.

Side Effects of Gentamicin Sulfate

Gentamicin sulfate ophthalmic solution can cause eye stinging, burning sensation, redness, and temporary blurring of vision. These usually go away without treatment, but if any of these side effects persist or become worse, see your doctor/pharmacist immediately.

Most people using gentamycin sulfate do not experience serious side effects. Your doctor prescribed this medicine because of its potential benefit to you, which he/she believes is greater than its risks.

Do not use gentamycin longer than recommended, because prolonged use may result in development of other infections such asfungal infection. Stop using it if you experience new/worsening symptoms such as swelling, eye pain, or thick eye discharge.

Gentamicin sulfate is rarely absorbed in the body, causing serious side effects. Consult your doctor promptly if serious, though rare, side effects such as easy bruising or bleeding, hallucinations, and other mental changes occur.

Serious allergic reactions to gentamycin sulfate is rare, but seek medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms of serious allergic reaction, such as itching, rash, swelling of the face, throat, ortongue, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.