Natadrops

Introduction

Natadrops are a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Natamycin. It is available under the brand name Natadrops. Natamycin is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent that is used to treat various fungal infections.

Uses

Natadrops are primarily prescribed for the treatment of fungal infections in the eye, such as fungal keratitis. Fungal keratitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the cornea, which can result in vision impairment if left untreated. Natadrops help to eliminate the fungal infection and alleviate the associated symptoms.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Natadrops may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s response to the treatment. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the specific dosage information provided on the product label.

To administer the drops, wash your hands thoroughly before handling the medication. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pocket, being careful not to touch your eye with the dropper tip. Close your eyes gently and keep them closed for a few minutes to allow the medication to spread evenly over the eye.

Mechanism of Action

Natamycin, the active ingredient in Natadrops, works by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells. It disrupts the integrity of the fungal cell membrane, leading to cell death. This mechanism of action helps to eliminate the fungal infection and promote the healing process.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include temporary blurred vision, eye irritation, or stinging sensation upon application. These side effects are usually mild and should resolve on their own. If they persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.

In rare cases, serious side effects such as severe eye pain, redness, swelling, or changes in vision may occur. If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There are no known significant drug interactions associated with Natadrops. However, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure the safe and effective use of this medication.

Precautions

Before using Natadrops, inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to Natamycin or any other ingredients in the medication. Additionally, let your healthcare provider know if you have any other medical conditions or are taking any other medications.

Natadrops are for external use only and should not be ingested. Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface to prevent contamination. If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes before applying Natadrops.

Storage

Store Natadrops at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Do not freeze the medication, and discard any unused medication after the prescribed duration of treatment.

Patient Tips

• Follow the prescribed dosage instructions and complete the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve.
• Wash your hands before and after each application of the drops to prevent the spread of infection.
• If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the drops. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting the lenses.
• If you experience any discomfort or have concerns while using Natadrops, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• Natamycin ophthalmic (Drugs.com) [Accessed 15 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• natamycin drops, suspension (RX) [Accessed 6 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Mascarenhas M, Chaudhari P, Lewis SA. Natamycin Ocular Delivery: Challenges and Advancements in Ocular Therapeutics. Adv Ther. 2023 Aug;40(8):3332-3359. doi: 10.1007/s12325-023-02541-x. Epub 2023 Jun 8. [Accessed 25 Jun. 2024] Available at:
• Natamycin Advanced Patient Information Consumer Information (Micromedex) (Drugs.com) [Accessed 8 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at: