Gatifloxacin

What is GATIFLOXACIN?

(GATIFLOXACIN) This medication is a quinolone antibiotic used for eye infections (such as conjunctivitis). This medication treats only bacterial eye infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

How should I use GATIFLOXACIN?

Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually 3 times a day for the first 2 days and then 2 times a day for the next 5 days. For best results, use exactly as directed for the full time prescribed. Stopping this medication too soon may result in a return of the infection. To apply eye drops, wash hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place the dropper directly over eye and instill the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of the eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining away from the eye. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the dropper. If you are using other kinds of eye drops, wait at least five minutes before applying the other medications. Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery. Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer's directions and check with your doctor before using them. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve in 7 days.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take GATIFLOXACIN?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to quinolone antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs clear vision until you can do it safely. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

What may interact with GATIFLOXACIN?

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

What if I miss a dose of GATIFLOXACIN?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects may I notice from receiving GATIFLOXACIN?

Blurred vision, watery eyes, headache, eye irritation/pain/dryness/redness, bad taste in mouth may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: eye redness that doesn't go away, swelling of the eye or eyelid. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in a new fungal eye infection. Do not use this medication for longer than prescribed. Contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening symptoms. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Where should I keep GATIFLOXACIN?

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Discard the solution if it changes color, turns cloudy, or if it contains particles. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.