A healthcare provider may prescribe Zymar to treat conjunctivitis ("pink eye"). The antibiotic comes in the form of an eye drop and works by killing bacteria that cause the infection. This product will only treat bacterial conjunctivitis -- it will not cure a viral infection. Common side effects include blurred vision, increased tearing, and eye irritation.
Zymar® (gatifloxacin) is an antibiotic eye drop used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis, commonly called "pink eye." It belongs to the fluoroquinolone group of antibiotics.
How Does It Work?Like other fluoroquinolones, Zymar kills certain bacteria that cause infections. It does this by interfering with bacterial enzymes called DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. Bacteria need these enzymes to make DNA, which is essential for the bacteria to multiply. Zymar will not kill viruses.
Some general considerations to keep in mind during treatment with Zymar include the following:
- This medication comes in the form of an eye drop. It is normally used four to eight times a day for seven days.
- To use this product, tilt your head back and gently pull the lower lid of your eye down to form a pocket. Place the drops into this pocket.
- Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly before and after using Zymar. This helps prevent spread of the infection.
- It is important to keep the Zymar bottle free from contamination to help prevent further infection. Do not allow the applicator tip to touch any surface, including your fingers or eyes.
- You should not wear contact lenses while using this medicine. Ask your healthcare provider when you may wear contacts again.
- Zymar should only be used in the eye. Do not take it by mouth or apply it to your skin.
- You should begin to feel better within a few days of starting treatment. However, this does not mean your infection is gone. It is important that you finish the full course of this medicine. Stopping it too soon may cause your symptoms to return or the bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.
- For Zymar to work properly, it must be used as prescribed.