what is gentamicin eye drops used for

Gentamicin eye drops are a type of antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections of the eye and the skin around the eyes, such as blepharitis and conjunctivitis. They belong to a class of drugs known as aminoglycoside antibiotics, which work by killing the bacteria that cause infection. Gentamicin eye drops are available only with a doctors prescription and come as a solution to instill in the eyes or as an eye ointment to apply to the eyes. The eye drops are usually instilled every 4 to 8 hours, and the eye ointment is usually applied two to four times a day. It is important to follow the directions on the prescription label carefully and to use gentamicin eye drops or eye ointment exactly as directed. Gentamicin eye drops should only be used in the eye and should not be taken by mouth. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can, but if it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses. Gentamicin eye drops may cause side effects such as eye irritation, burning, or stinging, and swelling of the eye. If any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away, it is important to tell your doctor.