A sterile, topical ophthalmic suspension combining a fourth-generation fluoroquinolone antibiotic (Gatifloxacin) with a potent corticosteroid (Prednisolone acetate). It is designed for the treatment of steroid-responsive inflammatory ocular conditions where the risk of superficial bacterial infection is high or where there is an existing bacterial infection. The combination provides broad-spectrum antibacterial coverage and potent anti-inflammatory action.
Adult: One drop instilled into the affected eye(s) every 4 to 6 hours. In severe inflammation, one drop every 1-2 hours initially, tapering frequency as inflammation subsides. Duration typically not to exceed 10-14 days without re-evaluation.
Note: 1. Wash hands. 2. Shake the suspension well before use. 3. Tilt head back, pull lower eyelid down to form a pouch. 4. Instill prescribed drops without touching the tip to eye or any surface. 5. Close eyes gently and apply pressure at the inner corner of the eye (nasolacrimal occlusion) for 1-2 minutes to minimize systemic absorption. 6. Wait at least 5-10 minutes before instilling any other eye drops.
Gatifloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (Topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV, enzymes essential for DNA replication, transcription, and repair, leading to rapid bacterial cell death. Prednisolone acetate is a glucocorticoid that binds to cytoplasmic receptors, translocates to the nucleus, and modulates gene transcription. It inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators (prostaglandins, leukotrienes), reduces capillary permeability, leukocyte migration, and fibroblast proliferation, thereby suppressing inflammation.
Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Corticosteroids have been shown to be teratogenic in animals. Gatifloxacin safety not established. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Avoid prolonged use.
Driving: May cause temporary blurred vision after instillation. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until vision clears.
| Other Corticosteroids (oral, topical, inhaled) | Additive risk of systemic corticosteroid side effects (hyperglycemia, adrenal suppression). | Moderate |
| Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) topical (e.g., Ketorolac, Nepafenac) | Increased risk of corneal adverse events (ulceration, perforation) especially post-surgery. | Major |
| Cholinesterase Inhibitors (e.g., Echothiophate iodide) used in glaucoma | Concurrent use may reduce the activity of cholinesterase inhibitors. | Moderate |
| Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) | Theoretical risk of altered INR due to systemic absorption of steroid; monitor INR. | Minor |
Same composition (Gatifloxacin (0.3% w/v) + Prednisolone (1% w/v)), different brands: