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Zymar Eye Drops Information

Zymar Eye Drops (Gatifloxacin) is an ophthalmic solution containing an antibiotic from the fluoroquinolone class. It is specifically used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis, commonly known as pinkeye, which is an infection of the transparent membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. Gatifloxacin works by inhibiting essential bacterial enzymes (DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV) involved in DNA replication, thereby killing the bacteria responsible for the infection. Zymar helps alleviate common symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis, including redness, swelling, irritation, itching, and discharge. It is effective only against bacterial infections, not against viral or fungal ones.

Zymar Eye Drops Side Effects

The most common side effects of Zymar Eye Drops may include blurred vision, burning or stinging sensation in the eye, conjunctival redness, chemosis (swelling of the conjunctiva), eye discomfort, eye dryness, eye itching, eye irritation, eye pain, headache, and taste disturbance (unpleasant or bitter taste). Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, hives)
• Exacerbation or worsening of conjunctivitis
• Eye swelling or discharge that worsens
• Severe eye pain or redness
• Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Swelling of the eyelids

Zymar Eye Drops Precautions

Do not use Zymar Eye Drops if you are allergic to Gatifloxacin, other fluoroquinolone antibiotics, or any other ingredients in this medication. Before starting this medication, inform your doctor about your medical history, including any viral or fungal eye infections, as this medication is not effective against them and its use may delay appropriate treatment. Prolonged use of any antibiotic, including Zymar, may result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If a superinfection occurs, discontinue use and institute alternative therapy. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There are no known significant drug interactions with topically applied Zymar, but it is always best to inform your doctor of all medications. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before using Zymar Eye Drops. The safety of Zymar during pregnancy has not been fully established; therefore, it should only be used if necessary. The potential benefits justify the possible risks to the fetus. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before using Zymar Eye Drops. It is unknown if Gatifloxacin passes into breast milk after ophthalmic use; therefore, caution is advised. Consult your doctor before using this medicine in children, as it is generally not recommended for use in children under 1 year of age, as safety and effectiveness have not been established in this age group unless specifically directed by a doctor. Do not wear contact lenses while you have symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis or while you are using Zymar Eye Drops. You may resume wearing contact lenses after your infection has cleared, provided you have obtained your doctor's approval.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Zymar Eye Drops comes as an ophthalmic solution. Wash your hands thoroughly before administering eye drops. Tilt your head back slightly, pull down your lower eyelid to form a pocket, and instill the prescribed number of drops (typically one drop) into the conjunctival sac. Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye, fingers, or any other surface to prevent contamination. After instillation, close your eye for at least 1 minute, gently pressing on the inner corner of the eye near the nose. This helps reduce systemic absorption. If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applications. Continue applying the product to complete the prescribed course of treatment, even after improvement is seen or felt, to prevent antibiotic resistance and ensure the infection is fully cleared. Do not stop using Zymar without talking to your doctor. Your doctor may perform regular eye exams to monitor your vision. Store Zymar Eye Drops at room temperature, typically between 15 °C and 25 °C. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Once opened, the product must be used within 28 days (or 1 month); discard any unused portion after this time. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Zymar Eye Drops?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Zymar Eye Drops.