Zymaxid

Generic name: gatifloxacin ophthalmic [ GAT-i-FLOX-a-sin-off-THAL-mik ]
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 27, 2022.

What is Zymaxid?

Zymaxid is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that fights bacteria.

Zymaxid eye drops are used to treat eye infections caused by bacteria.

Zymaxid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Do not allow the Zymaxid dropper tip to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as severe swelling, burning, redness, or discomfort, eye pain or vision changes, signs of new eye infection (drainage, crusting, or oozing), or the first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild.

Avoid wearing contact lenses while using Zymaxid eye drops while you still have active symptoms of the eye infection you are treating. Do not use other eye drops or medications during treatment unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Follow all directions on your Zymaxid label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Zymaxid if you allergic to gatifloxacin or similar medicines, such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, lomefloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin, and others.

Before you use Zymaxid, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions or allergies.

It is not known whether Zymaxid will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known whether gatifloxacin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Zymaxid is not approved for use by anyone younger than 1 year old.

How should I use Zymaxid?

Use Zymaxid exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

You may need to use the eye drops every 2 hours for the first couple of days, and then every 4 hours for the rest of your treatment. Follow your doctor''s instructions.

Wash your hands before using the Zymaxid eye drops.

To apply the eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.

• Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting. Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.

• Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.

Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

Do not use Zymaxid eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of Zymaxid is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using Zymaxid?

You should not wear contact lenses while you still have active symptoms of an eye infection.

Do not use other eye medications during treatment with Zymaxid unless your doctor tells you to.

Zymaxid side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Zymaxid: hives; difficulty breathing; slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• eye swelling, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage (may be signs of a new infection); or

• any new or worsening eye problems.

Common Zymaxid side effects may include:

• mild itching, burning, redness, or irritation;

• watery eyes; or

• puffy eyelids.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Zymaxid?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on Zymaxid used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Zymaxid only for the indication prescribed.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 5.01.