Nicin
Cheaper & Alternative Brands
Same generic (Natamycin), same form (Ophthalmic Suspension)
Clinical Prescribing Information
Medical monograph and safety information for healthcare professionals & patients.Indications & Clinical Uses
N-Mycin ophthalmic suspension is indicated for the treatment of fungal blepharitis, conjunctivitis and keratitis caused by susceptible organisms including Fusarium solani keratitis.
Dosage & Administration
For fungal keratitis
: The preferred initial dosage is 1 drop instilled in the conjuntival sac (s) at 1-2 hours interval. The frequency of application can usually be reduced to 1 drop 6-8 times daily after the first 3-4 days. Therapy should generally be continued for 14 to 21 days or until there is resolution of active fungal keratitis.
For fungal blepharitis & conjunctivitis
: 1 drop 4-6 times daily may be sufficient.
Pediatric use
: Safety and effectiveness in paediatric patients have not been established.
Contraindications
Natamycin ophthalmic suspension is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to any of its component.
Side Effects & Adverse Reactions
Eye irritation, eye discomfort, eye edema, conjunctival chemosis and hyperemia has been reported.
Warnings & Precautions
Do not touch dropper tip to any surface, as this may contaminate the suspension. Patient should be advised not to wear contact lenses if they have signs and symptoms of fungal blepharitis, conjunctivitis and keratitis. Failure of improvement of keratitis following 7-10 days of administration of the drug suggests that the infection may be caused by a microorganism not susceptible to N-Mycin. Continuation of therapy should be based on clinical re-evaluation and additional laboratory studies. Adherence of the suspension to areas of epithelial ulceration or retention of the suspension in the fornices occurs regularly.
Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action
Natamycin is a tetraene polyene antibiotic derived from Streptomyces natalensis. Natamycin probably exerts its antifungal effects by binding to sterols in the fungal cell membrane to produce a change in membrane permeability that allows loss of essential cellular constituents. It possesses in vitro activity against a variety of yeast and filamentous fungi, including Candida, Aspergillus, Cephalosporium, Fusarium and Penicillium. Although the activity against fungi is dose-related, Natamycin is predominantly fungicidal. Topical administration appears to produce effective concentration of Natamycin within the corneal stroma but not in intraocular fluid.