Benzalkonium Chloride + Gatifloxacin

Dosage Forms Available

• Benzalkonium Chloride + Gatifloxacin is available as an eye drop solution, meant to be instilled into the eyes.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is intended for use in adults and children who are 1 year of age and older.

Contraindications

• Benzalkonium Chloride + Gatifloxacin is contraindicated in patients who have a known allergy to gatifloxacin, benzalkonium chloride, or any other ingredient in the medicine formulation.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Benzalkonium Chloride + Gatifloxacin could potentially interact with other eye drops, especially those containing silver. It can also interact with oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), antidiabetic medications (e.g., glyburide), and certain antacids or vitamin/mineral supplements that contain aluminium, magnesium, iron, or zinc (e.g., aluminium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• In case you accidentally instil too many drops of Benzalkonium Chloride + Gatifloxacin into your eye, do not worry. You can simply rinse your eye with clean water at room temperature. However, if any symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor.
• If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects of this medicine are temporary and generally harmless. They usually resolve when the medicine is discontinued. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Eye irritation: Use artificial tear eye drops and apply cold compresses to your eyes.
• Blurred vision: Avoid tasks requiring sharp vision, such as reading or driving, until your vision clears.
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth: Drink water or chew sugar-free gum to reduce the unpleasant taste.
• Headache: Rest and stay hydrated. You may consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Benzalkonium Chloride + Gatifloxacin eye drops can cause temporary blurred vision. Therefore, you are advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery until your vision is clear.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, you should consult your doctor before using Benzalkonium Chloride + Gatifloxacin.

Caution in Other Conditions

• If you have other eye conditions like glaucoma, you should consult your doctor before using Benzalkonium Chloride + Gatifloxacin.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes.
• Do not rub your eyes excessively.
• Protect your eyes from dust and harmful UV rays by wearing sunglasses when outside.