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gatifloxacin - ophthalmic, Zymar

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GENERIC NAME: GATIFLOXACIN - OPHTHALMIC (gat-ih-FLOX-uh-sin)

BRAND NAME(S): Zymar

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is a quinolone antibiotic used for eye infections.

HOW TO USE: For best results, use exactly as directed for the full time prescribed. Stopping this medication too soon may result in a relapse of the infection.To apply eye drops, wash hands first. To avoid contamination, do not let the dropper tip touch any 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.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.Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve in 7 days.

SIDE EFFECTS: Blurred vision, watery eyes, headache, eye irritation/pain/dryness/redness, bad taste in mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she 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 immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: persistent eye redness, swelling of the eye or eyelid.An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: 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.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.