Alcomicin

Common Name: gentamicin sulfate eye/ear preparations

How does Alcomicin work?

Gentamicin belongs to the family of medications known as antibiotics. It is used to treat infections of the eye or ear that are caused by certain bacteria. It works by blocking the metabolism of the bacteria and this then kills the bacteria. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Alcomicin?

Eye drops: The usual recommended dose is 2 drops into the affected eye three or four times daily or as directed by your doctor. More frequent dosing may be used in certain situations, such as treating eye ulcers. Eye ointment: Apply a thin film to the affected area three or four times daily or as directed by the doctor. If eye drops are used during the day, the ointment can be used at bedtime to continue treatment during the night. Ear drops: Thoroughly clean the ear canal of wax and debris. Instill 3 or 4 drops into the affected ear three times daily or as directed by the doctor. Lie with the affected ear turned upward. Instill the solution and remain in this position for several minutes to ensure the medication reaches the ear canal. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones above, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Use it for the full duration of the prescribed treatment even if the area starts to look or feel better. If you forget a dose of this medication, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Alcomicin come in?

Alcomicin® Each mL of ophthalmic solution contains gentamicin sulfate 5 mg and benzalkonium chloride 0.01%. Nonmedicinal ingredients include purified water, sodium chloride, and sodium phosphates.

What should I NOT take with Alcomicin?

Anyone allergic to any of the ingredients of the medications should not use them. As with all eye preparations containing benzalkonium chloride, those using the drops should not wear soft contact lenses during treatment. Ear drops should not be used by people with absent or perforated ear drums.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Alcomicin?

Contamination: To avoid possible contamination of the drops or ointment, do not touch the dropper tip or the ointment tube tip to any surface. Organism overgrowth: Use of this medication occasionally allows overgrowth of microorganisms, such as fungi, that are not killed by the antibiotic. If this occurs, or if irritation or sensitization to any of the components of this preparation develops, contact your the doctor. Pregnancy: The safety of using this medication during pregnancy has not been established. Therefore its use during pregnancy is not recommended unless, in the judgment of your doctor, the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether or not this medication passes into breast milk. Nursing women should speak to their doctor about the benefits and risks of taking gentamicin sulfate eye or ear drops. Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication for children under the age of six years have not been established.