Natamycin is a medication used to manage eye fungal infections. According to Drugs.com, natamycin belongs to the category of medicines called antifungals, and it works to destroy the fungus causing your symptoms. Typically, you will initially place one drop of natamycin in the affected eye every one to two hours, says the National Library of Medicine. After three to four days, you will apply one drop of the medication to your affected eye six to eight times a day. Your doctor may prescribe this medication for 14 to 21 days.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, natamycin's common side effects include eye irritation, eye redness, pain and swelling. Fortunately, these side effects are not life threatening, but if prolonged, these symptoms can adversely affect your ability to see. Inform your physician when you experience these side effects for three to five days.
Serious Side Effects
Natamycin is not expected to cause any potentially fatal side effects. However, the National Library of Medicine indicates that natamycin can cause conjunctival chemosis, a condition in which there is excess fluid in the thin membranes covering your eye. This causes your eyes to become extremely swollen. Natamycin may also cause hyperemia, a condition in which there is an increased amount of blood flow to your eye. This may cause visual problems. Tell your physician when you have these symptoms. Oftentimes, he will ask you to discontinue natamycin and will prescribe a safer opthalmic (of the eye) medication for you. Everybody reacts differently to medication, so you may develop a serious side effect not mentioned within the package label. Inform you doctor if you develop any other side effects.
Additional Concerns
You must avoid natamycin especially if you are allergic to it. You may develop itchy eyes and visual problems. Like all medications, an allergic reaction consists of difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of your face, lips and throat. Natamycin has the potential to cause such a reaction if excessive amounts are used. The medication can seep into the blood vessels of your eye and pass into your body's blood vessels.
The National Library of Medicine says that it is unknown whether natamycin can harm your breastfeeding or your unborn baby. Tell your physician if you plan to nurse or hope to become pregnant. She will find an alternative medication for you.
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