Natagen
Generic Name
Natamycin 5% Ophthalmic Suspension
Manufacturer
Acme Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| natagen 5 suspension | ৳ 100.30 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Natagen-5 Suspension is an ophthalmic antifungal medication used to treat various fungal infections of the eye, including fungal keratitis, conjunctivitis, and blepharitis.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For fungal keratitis: Initially, 1 drop into the conjunctival sac hourly for 3-4 days. Subsequently, 1 drop 6-8 times daily. Treatment may continue for 14-21 days or until resolution. Dosage should be tapered gradually to prevent relapse.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is typically required for elderly patients.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is necessary as systemic absorption is minimal with ophthalmic use.
How to Take
Shake the bottle well before each use. Instill drops into the affected eye(s) as directed by a physician. Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface to prevent contamination.
Mechanism of Action
Natamycin is an antifungal polyene antibiotic that acts by binding to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane. This binding alters the permeability of the cell membrane, leading to leakage of essential cellular components and ultimately cell death.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects may be observed within a few days of initiating treatment.
Excretion
Primarily eliminated via the tear film and local metabolism; minimal systemic excretion.
Half life
Not well characterized for ophthalmic use due to negligible systemic absorption.
Absorption
Systemic absorption from ocular surface is poor. Minimal penetration into intraocular tissues occurs beyond the cornea.
Metabolism
Not significantly metabolized systemically following ophthalmic application.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Natamycin or any other component of the suspension.
Drug Interactions
Other topical ophthalmic medications
If using other eye drops, administer them at least 5 minutes apart to ensure proper absorption and efficacy.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-25°C). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Ocular overdose is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity due to poor systemic absorption. Accidental ingestion is also not expected to cause significant systemic effects.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is not known whether Natamycin is excreted in human milk; caution is advised when administering to a nursing mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Natamycin or any other component of the suspension.
Drug Interactions
Other topical ophthalmic medications
If using other eye drops, administer them at least 5 minutes apart to ensure proper absorption and efficacy.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-25°C). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Ocular overdose is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity due to poor systemic absorption. Accidental ingestion is also not expected to cause significant systemic effects.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is not known whether Natamycin is excreted in human milk; caution is advised when administering to a nursing mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Generally 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored properly. Refer to the product label for specific expiry date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic Available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance have established Natamycin's efficacy and safety in treating fungal eye infections, particularly fungal keratitis.
Lab Monitoring
- Regular slit-lamp examination to monitor treatment response and disease progression.
- Corneal scrapings for microbiological culture and sensitivity testing if initial treatment is ineffective or diagnosis is uncertain.
Doctor Notes
- Confirm fungal etiology with appropriate laboratory tests (e.g., corneal scrapings, culture) before initiating Natamycin therapy.
- Monitor patient response closely, especially in severe or deep-seated infections. Dosage reduction should be gradual to avoid relapse.
- Educate patients on proper instillation technique and the importance of adherence to the full course of treatment.
Patient Guidelines
- Shake the bottle vigorously before each use to ensure proper suspension.
- Do not wear contact lenses during treatment with Natagen-5 suspension.
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after applying the eye drops.
- Do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Natagen-5 suspension may cause temporary blurred vision or other visual disturbances. Avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has cleared.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen the infection or cause further irritation.
- Maintain good ocular hygiene to prevent reinfection.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.