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Overview: Natacyn eye drops are used for eye infections caused by certain fungi. The medicine works by stopping the fungus from growing. The most common side effects are eye irritation or discomfort. Tell your healthcare provider if your eye infection does not improve while using Natacyn.

Uses

What is Natacyn used for?

Natacyn is commonly used for fungal infections in the eye. It treats the following types of eye infections caused by certain fungi.

  • Blepharitis, which affects the eyelid
  • Conjunctivitis, or “pink eye,” which affects the conjunctiva or clear tissue covering the front of your eye, except the cornea 
  • Keratitis, which affects the cornea or clear layer on the front of the eye 

Natacyn may not be appropriate for some of the infections listed above, depending on which germs are causing the infection. 

Natacyn may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.

How does Natacyn work (mechanism of action)?

Natacyn is an antifungal eye drop. It works by attaching to parts of the fungal cell membrane, which weakens the cell and helps stop the fungus from growing. 

How is Natacyn supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Natacyn

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 5% ophthalmic suspension (eye drops)

How should I store Natacyn?

Natacyn should be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature, between 36 F to 75 F (2 C to 24 C). Do not freeze. Store in a cool, dry place that is not in direct sunlight. 

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of Natacyn?

The most common side effects of Natacyn are eye irritation or discomfort. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

There may be other side effects of Natacyn that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of Natacyn?

While less common, the most serious side effects of Natacyn are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Natacyn may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using Natacyn and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use Natacyn?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use Natacyn.

  • Natacyn
  • Natamycin
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in Natacyn.

What should I know about Natacyn before using it?

Do not use Natacyn unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Use it as prescribed.

Do not share Natacyn with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep Natacyn out of the reach of children. Since this medicine may be kept in a refrigerator, take special precautions to keep it away from children who also use the refrigerator.

Natacyn is an eye drop medicine. Make sure that you or a caregiver understands how to properly administer eye drops. If you have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.

Shake the bottle well before each use. Do not use Natacyn if the container or dropper is damaged. 

Other eye infections may occur if your eye drop container gets contaminated with bacteria or other germs. In some cases, eye infections may become severe and lead to vision loss. To help prevent eye infections, be careful not to let the tip of the container touch your eye, fingers, or any other surfaces. Wash your hands before each use. 

Keep all appointments to have your eye checked. If your eye does not start to improve within seven to 10 days after starting Natacyn treatment, your healthcare provider may recommend a different treatment for your infection. Do not use Natacyn for longer than prescribed.

Do not wear contact lenses during your treatment with Natacyn.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using Natacyn?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if Natacyn is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how Natacyn could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use Natacyn while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if Natacyn passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use Natacyn while breastfeeding.

How can I get more information about Natacyn?

For more information about Natacyn, you can visit the manufacturer’s website at www.natacyn.com or call them at 833-442-7769.

Interactions

Does Natacyn interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between Natacyn and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Natacyn, but heavy drinking can slow your immune response and make it harder for your body to fight infection. 

Does Natacyn interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between Natacyn and other medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much Natacyn?

If you or someone else has used too much Natacyn, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Natacyn?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses. 

It is important to complete your prescribed course of Natacyn, even if your symptoms get better or go away. This will reduce the risk that future infections are resistant to Natacyn or other similar medicines.