The United States Food and Drug

Administration (FDA) has approved Zymaxid (gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution) 0.5%, a topical fluoroquinolone anti-infective indicated for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis.

 

What is Zymaxid?

 

Gatifloxacin is an antibiotic in a group of drugs called fluoroquinolones (flor-o-KWIN-o-lones). Gatifloxacin fights bacteria in the body.

Gatifloxacin ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat eye infections caused by bacteria.

Gatifloxacin ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

 

What is the most important information I should know about Zymaxid?

 

You should not use this medication if you allergic to gatifloxacin.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to gatifloxacin (Tequin) or similar medications such as levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), ofloxacin (Floxin), norfloxacin (Noroxin), and others.

 

Avoid wearing contact lenses 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. Do not allow the 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.