Overview
DESCRIPTION: NATACYN™ (natamycin ophthalmic suspension) 5% is a sterile, antifungal drug for topical ophthalmic administration. Each mL of NATACYN™ (natamycin ophthalmic suspension) contains: Active: natamycin 5% (50 mg). Preservative: benzalkonium chloride 0.02%. Inactive: sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid (neutralized to adjust the pH), purified water.
Mechanism of Action
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Natamycin is a tetraene polyene antibiotic derived from Streptomyces natalensis . It possesses in vitro activity against a variety of yeast and filamentous fungi, including Candida, Aspergillus, Cephalosporium, Fusarium and Penicillium . The mechanism of action appears to be through binding of the molecule to the sterol moiety of the fungal cell membrane. The polyenesterol complex alters the permeability of the membrane to produce depletion of essential cellular constituents. Although the activity against fungi is dose-related, natamycin is predominantly fungicidal. Natamycin is not effective in vitro against gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria.
Indications
- INDICATIONS AND USAGE: NATACYN™ (natamycin ophthalmic suspension) 5% is indicated for the treatment of fungal blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and keratitis caused by susceptible organisms including Fusarium solani keratitis. As in other forms of suppurative keratitis, initial and sustained therapy of fungal keratitis should be determined by the clinical diagnosis, laboratory diagnosis by smear and culture of corneal scrapings and drug response. Whenever possible the in vitro activity of natamycin against the responsible fungus should be determined.
Common Doses
- Refer to label
Dosage
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: SHAKE WELL BEFORE USING. The preferred initial dosage in fungal keratitis is one drop of NATACYN™ (natamycin ophthalmic suspension) 5% instilled in the conjunctival sac at hourly or two-hourly intervals. The frequency of application can usually be reduced to one drop 6 to 8 times daily after the first 3 to 4 days. Therapy should generally be continued for 14 to 21 days or until there is resolution of active fungal keratitis.
Contraindications
- CONTRAINDICATIONS: NATACYN™ (natamycin ophthalmic suspension) 5% is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to any of its components.
Side Effects
- ADVERSE REACTIONS: The following events have been identified during post-marketing use of NATACYN ™ (natamycin ophthalmic suspension) 5% in clinical practice. Because they are reported voluntarily from a population of unknown size, estimates of frequency cannot be made. The events, which have been chosen for inclusion due to their seriousness, frequency of reporting, possible causal connection to NATACYN™ (natamycin ophthalmic suspension) 5%, or a combination of these factors include: allergic reaction, change in vision, chest pain, corneal opacity, dyspnea, eye discomfort, eye edema, eye...
Interactions
- No major interactions listed on the FDA label. Always consult a healthcare professional.