Betamethasone Gentamicin: Indication, Dosage, Side Effect, Precaution

This information is not country-specific. Please refer to the local prescribing information.

Generic Medicine Info

Indications and Dosage

Ophthalmic
Ocular inflammation with suspected or confirmed bacterial infection

Adult: As ophthalmic solution containing gentamicin 0.3% and betamethasone 0.1%: Instill 2 drops into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) 3-4 times daily; 2 drops every 2 hr may be used during the acute stage. As ophthalmic ointment containing gentamicin 3 mg and betamethasone 1 mg per g of ointment: Apply ¼ inch to the affected eye(s) 3-4 times daily. May reduce frequency of daily applications upon clinical improvement. May also be used at bedtime in conjunction with daytime use of the drops.

Otic/Aural
Otic inflammation with suspected or confirmed bacterial infection

Adult: As otic solution containing gentamicin 0.3% and betamethasone 0.1%: Instill 3-4 drops into the affected ear tid or as directed by physician. Lie with affected ear turned upward; instill the drops and let the patient remain in this position for a few minutes to allow penetration of the medication into the ear canal.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity. Ophthalmic preparations should not be used in epithelial herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic keratitis), varicella, and many other viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva, mycobacterial infections of the eye, trachoma, fungal diseases of ocular structures. Not to be used after removal of a corneal foreign body or in the presence of acute local viral lesions e.g. herpes, and in patients with absent or perforated tympanic membranes.

Special Precautions

Prolonged ophthalmic usage may increase the intraocular pressure. Monitor intraocular pressure if treatment lasts for ≥10 days. Prolonged use of ophthalmic corticosteroid may increase the risk of cataract formation. Increases the risk of perforation in diseases causing thinning of the cornea or sclera. Use of topical corticosteroids may lead to reactivation of disease in patients with a history of herpetic infection of the cornea. Steroid use after cataract surgery may increase risk of filtering blebs and delay healing. Prolonged use may also suppress immune response and increase risk of secondary infections. Safety and efficacy have not been established in children <8 yr. Pregnancy and lactation.

Adverse Reactions

Ophthalmic: Increased ocular pressure, increased ocular hyperemia, oedema and burning sensation. May also cause anterior uveitis or perforation of the globe. Otic: May cause ototoxicity.

Overdosage

Symptoms: Excessive prolonged use of topical corticosteroids can suppress pituitary-adrenal function leading to secondary adrenal insufficiency. Treatment: Correct electrolyte imbalance, if needed. Slow withdrawal of corticosteroids may be needed.

Action

Description: Betamethasone is a corticosteroid that has anti-inflammatory activity. Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside that has broad spectrum bactericidal activity; it is active against a wide variety of pathogenic gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.

Storage

Store between 2-30°C.

MIMS Class

Eye Antiseptics with Corticosteroids / Ear Antiseptics with Corticosteroids

Disclaimer: This information is independently developed by MIMS based on Betamethasone + Gentamicin from various references and is provided for your reference only. Therapeutic uses, prescribing information and product availability may vary between countries. Please refer to MIMS Product Monographs for specific and locally approved prescribing information. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, MIMS shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2021 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com