Gentamicin Ophthalmic

Gentamicin Ophthalmic (Genoptic, Garamycin)

Gentamicin and Prednisolone ophthalmic (Pred-G, Pred-G S.O.P.)

Category:

Antibiotic

Description:

Aminoglycoside antibiotic
Aminoglycoside and steroidal anti-inflammatory combination

Indications:

Ocular infections due to susceptible organisms (see Gentamicin injection monograph)

Contraindications:

Generally not indicated for long-term therapy due to nephrotoxocity and ototoxicity

Precautions:

Pregnancy category D
Use proper ophthalmic application procedures (tilt head backward, pull lower eyelid downward to make a “cup”, avoid touching tip of bottle, drop in eye, place light pressure on lacrimal sac for ~1 minute)
Ophthalmic suspension must be shaken prior to use
Notify provider immediately at the first sign of skin rash or other allergic reaction
Use of steroids in the presence of viral infections such as herpes, may prolong or worsen the severity of the viral infection.

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

Transient irritation, burning or stinging
May cause white crystalline precipitates and lid margin crusting

Dosage:

Administered by ophthalmic drops and ointment
Gentamicin Ophthalmic Drops:
- 1-2 drops into affected eye(s) every 4 hours
Gentamicin Ophthalmic Ointment:
- Apply 1/2 inch ribbon of ointment into the affected conjunctival sac(s) every 4 hours.

Source: Operational Medicine 2001, Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300