Natamet Eye Drops
Natamet Eye Drops (Natamycin 5%) is a potent antifungal medication specifically formulated for ophthalmic use. It is primarily used to treat fungal keratitis (inflammation of the cornea) and other ocular infections caused by susceptible fungi, including Aspergillus, Candida, and Fusarium. Natamycin works by binding to the sterols (ergosterol) in the fungal cell membrane, which increases cell permeability and leads to the leakage of essential cellular constituents, eventually causing the death of the fungus. Because fungal infections of the eye can be particularly aggressive, Natamet is an essential therapeutic agent, often serving as the first line of defense in preventing permanent corneal scarring and vision loss.
Key Features
- Specifically effective against a broad range of yeasts and filamentous fungi that affect the eye.
- Helps clear fungal pathogens from the ocular surface to prevent deep-seated corneal damage.
- The suspension is designed to adhere to the corneal surface, providing localized therapeutic concentrations.
- Prevents the spread of fungal elements into the deeper chambers of the eye (endophthalmitis).
- One of the few FDA-approved topical treatments for fungal infections of the ocular surface.
Key Ingredients
- Natamycin (5% w/v)
- Benzalkonium Chloride
- Sterile Aqueous Vehicle
Precautions
- Always shake the bottle thoroughly before each use to ensure the active ingredient is properly suspended.
- Do not touch the dropper tip to your eye, fingers, or any other surface to prevent secondary bacterial infections.
- Do not wear contact lenses while you have a fungal eye infection or during treatment with Natamet.
- Fungal infections resolve slowly. Even if symptoms improve, continue using the drops for the full duration prescribed by your doctor.
- If your vision worsens or you experience sudden eye pain, contact your ophthalmologist immediately.
How to Use
- For fungal keratitis, the initial dose is often one drop in the conjunctival sac at 1 or 2-hour intervals for the first few days, as directed by your surgeon.
- Tilt your head back, pull down the lower lid, and instill the drop. Close your eye and apply gentle pressure to the tear duct for 1 minute.
- Your doctor will gradually reduce the frequency of drops (e.g., to 6-8 times daily) as the infection responds to treatment.
- If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 10 minutes between different types of drops.
- Store at room temperature (below 30°C). Do not freeze and protect from light.
Legal Disclaimer: The product is guaranteed to be 100% genuine. Product images are for illustrative purposes only. Packaging/labels may vary due to manufacturer updates. Ocular fungal infections are serious medical conditions; this medication must be used under the strict supervision of an eye specialist.
