Garamycin eye drops, also known as gentamicin, belongs to the class of prescription drugs called antibiotics. In addition to coming in the form of an eye drop solution, doctors may also prescribe the ointment form of this antibiotic. Patients using garamycin eye drops should follow their doctors' dosing directions and be aware of possible side effects.
Infections
Doctors prescribe garamycin eye drops in order to treat bacterial eye infections, reports Drugs.com. A common infection, bacterial conjunctivitis, may cause redness, swollen eyelids, itching and discharge. A mild infection may resolve without medication, but use of the medication will also aid in reducing the intensity of the symptoms.
Dosing
In most cases, doctors will prescribe the same dose for adults and children. The typical recommendation for an eye infection is for the patient to use the eye drops six times a day. If a person has a severe infection, the doctor may recommend that the patient use the drops hourly, explains MayoClinic.com. The doctor may vary the dosing depending on the infection and its severity. If a person misses a dose, she should use it as soon as she realizes she missed using the drop.
Side Effects
As with any medication, garamycin use may cause side effects. A sensitivity or allergic reaction to the antibiotic eye drop may cause itching, redness and irritation on the surface of the eye. Side effects may also include vision changes and eye pain. Though instilled in the eye, the medication drains through the tear ducts and may cause a reaction in other parts of the body as well. Systemic reactions may include blood in stools or urine, abnormal swelling or hallucinations. Garamycin may also interact with a number of medications, including furosemide, cidofovir, gallamine and lysine, notes Drugs.com. A patient should discuss all current medications he is taking with his doctor before using garamycin.
