Brand name:

Zymar

Why is Zymar prescribed?

Zymar is an antibiotic used in the treatment of eye infections such as conjunctivitis (pinkeye) and other bacterial infections. Gatifloxacin, the active ingredient, is a member of the quinolone family of antibiotics.

Most important fact about Zymar

Other forms of gatifloxacin have been known to cause allergic reactions in a few patients. These reactions can be extremely serious, leading to loss of consciousness and cardiovascular collapse. Early warning signs include a skin rash, hives, and itching. Other symptoms may include swelling of the face or throat, shortness of breath, and being unable to breathe. If you develop any of these symptoms, seek emergency help immediately.

How should you take Zymar?

Zymar solution is administered with an eyedropper. To avoid contaminating the solution, do not touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, finger, or any other surface.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature; do not freeze.

Zymar side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Zymar.

• Side effects may include:
  Eye irritation, increased tearing, inflammation of the cornea or other parts of the eye

Why should Zymar not be prescribed?

Do not use Zymar if you've ever had an allergic reaction to the drug or to other quinolone antibiotics such as Cipro, Floxin, Levaquin, Noroxin, Avelox, or Tequin.

Special warnings about Zymar

Long-term use of Zymar could promote the growth of germs that are resistant to Zymar. The doctor will examine your eyes as needed to watch for signs of this development.

Be sure to tell the doctor if you wear contact lenses. People with eye infections generally should not wear contact lenses.

Zymar has not been studied in infants less than 1 year old.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Zymar

There is no information on interactions with Zymar. When taken internally, however, gatifloxacin is known to interact with the following:

Caffeine
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Theophylline (Theo-Dur)
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Zymar has not been adequately studied in pregnant women. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, alert your doctor immediately.

Researchers do not know whether Zymar can be passed to a breastfeeding infant. However, animal studies indicate that it could appear in breast milk. If you plan to breastfeed, discuss your medication options with your doctor.

Recommended dosage for Zymar

For days 1 and 2, insert one drop in each affected eye every 2 hours, up to a maximum of eight times a day. For days 3 through 7, insert one drop up to a maximum of four times a day. Zymar should be used during your normal waking hours. You do not have to wake up from sleeping to take Zymar.

Overdosage

There is no information on Zymar overdose. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.