Gentamicin Eye Drops BP

Generic Name:
Gentamicin Eye Drops BP
Therapeutic Category:
Ophthalmic Antibacterial / Aminoglycoside
Mechanism of Action:
Actively binds to the 30S subunit of bacterial ribosomes, disrupting protein synthesis and inducing cell membrane misreading, which leads to cell death in susceptible bacterial strains.

Indications (Therapeutic Uses)

Gentamicin Eye Drops are indicated for the topical treatment of superficial bacterial infections of the external eye and its adnexa:

  • Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Treatment of acute inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by susceptible strains of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.
  • Blepharitis & Blepharoconjunctivitis: Management of bacterial infections involving the eyelids and surrounding margins.
  • Keratitis & Keratoconjunctivitis: Topical treatment of bacterial corneal infections to prevent deep corneal tissue damage.
  • Prophylaxis in Ocular Surgery: Pre- and post-operative protection against superficial infections during ophthalmic surgeries or foreign body removals.

Dosage & Administration

Website Note: Dosage and duration of treatment must be individualized by a registered medical practitioner or ophthalmologist based on the severity of the infection.

  • Standard Dose (Mild to Moderate Infections): Instill 1 to 2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 4 hours.
  • Severe Infections: Instill 2 drops into the affected eye(s) every hour initially, then reduce the frequency gradually as inflammation subsides.
  • Administration Method: Wash hands thoroughly before use. Tilt the head back, gently pull down the lower eyelid to form a pocket, and instill the drop without letting the dropper tip touch the eye, eyelids, or any other surface to avoid contamination.
  • Contact Lenses: Avoid wearing contact lenses (especially soft lenses) during active ocular infections. Benzalkonium chloride, frequently used as a preservative in these drops, can be absorbed by soft lenses and cause discoloration or corneal irritation.

Contraindications & Precautions

  • Absolute Contraindications: Do not use in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to gentamicin, other aminoglycosides (such as tobramycin or neomycin), or any component of the formulation.
  • Superinfection Risk: Prolonged topical use of antibiotics may result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If the infection does not improve within a few days or worsens, therapy must be re-evaluated.
  • Delayed Healing: Aminoglycosides applied topically to the eye can occasionally slow down corneal wound healing.
  • Cross-Hypersensitivity: Patients sensitive to other topical aminoglycoside antibiotics may also exhibit sensitivity to gentamicin.

Potential Side Effects

  • Common / Mild: Transient burning, stinging, irritation, itching, or localized redness immediately following instillation.
  • Less Common / Severe: Hypersensitivity reactions (eyelid swelling, severe itching, skin rash), corneal epithelial erosion, and severe conjunctival erythema.