Description
Natacyn® (natamycin ophthalmic suspension) 5% is a sterile medication used topically in the eye to treat fungal infections. Each milliliter contains 50 mg of natamycin, an antifungal agent effective against a variety of yeast and filamentous fungi, including Candida, Aspergillus, Cephalosporium, Fusarium, and Penicillium. The suspension also includes benzalkonium chloride 0.02% as a preservative, with sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid to adjust the pH, and purified water as inactive ingredients. Natamycin functions by binding to sterols in the fungal cell membrane, altering its permeability and leading to the depletion of essential cellular components, thereby exerting a fungicidal effect.
| Fact Table |
| Formula | C33H47NO13 |
| License | US FDA |
| Bioavailability | Minimal (topical ophthalmic use) |
| Legal status | Rx-only (prescription) |
| Chemical Name | Natamycin |
| Elimination half-life | Not systemically absorbed |
| Dosage (Strength) | 5% (50 mg/mL) ophthalmic suspension |
| Pregnancy | Category C – Consult a doctor |
| Brands | Natacyn |
| Protein binding | Not applicable (topical) |
| PubChem CID | 5284447 |
| MedlinePlus | a607058 |
| ChEBI | 7515 |
| ATC code | S01AA30 |
| DrugBank | DB00826 |
| KEGG | D08226 |
| Routes of administration | Topical (ophthalmic) |
Directions
Shake the bottle well before use. For fungal keratitis, instill one drop of Natacyn into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye at hourly or two-hourly intervals. After the initial 3 to 4 days, the frequency can typically be reduced to one drop 6 to 8 times daily. Treatment should continue for 14 to 21 days or until the infection resolves. In cases of fungal blepharitis and conjunctivitis, an initial dosage of 4 to 6 daily applications may suffice. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Ingredients
Active ingredient:
Inactive ingredients:
- Benzalkonium chloride 0.02% (preservative)
- Sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid (to adjust pH)
- Purified water
Contraindications
Natacyn is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to natamycin or any of the components of the formulation.
Cautions
Topical Use Only: Natacyn is intended for topical ophthalmic use and should not be injected.Contact Lens Wearers: Patients exhibiting signs and symptoms of fungal eye infections should refrain from wearing contact lenses during treatment.
Pregnancy and Nursing: Natacyn should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers, as it is unknown whether natamycin is excreted in human milk.
Pediatric Use: The safety and effectiveness of Natacyn in pediatric patients have not been established.
General Precautions: If there is no improvement in keratitis after 7 to 10 days of treatment, re-evaluation is necessary to determine if the infection is caused by a non-susceptible organism.
Side Effects
The following adverse reactions have been reported during post-marketing use of Natacyn:
- Common: Eye irritation or discomfort.
- Serious: Allergic reactions, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
If you experience any of these side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 9739
Prescription Required
