Description:

Natamet Ophthalmic Suspension IP (Natamycin sterile eye drops 5ml) is a topical antifungal medication specifically formulated for the treatment of fungal infections of the eye (ocular mycoses). It is the primary treatment for fungal keratitis (corneal infection), fungal blepharitis (eyelid infection), and fungal conjunctivitis caused by susceptible organisms, particularly Fusarium solani and other filamentous fungi (e.g., Aspergillus, Candida). Natamycin binds to ergosterol in fungal cell membranes, forming pores that lead to leakage of cellular contents and fungal cell death. It is the only FDA-approved topical ophthalmic antifungal and is considered a first-line agent for fungal eye infections due to its broad-spectrum activity against filamentous fungi and low systemic absorption.

Prescription: Prescription-only (Rx). Requires a doctor’s prescription (typically from an ophthalmologist) after clinical diagnosis (e.g., corneal scraping/culture for fungal confirmation). In Ghana and many markets, it is regulated and available through pharmacies (imported generic).

Therapeutic Category:

Ophthalmic antifungal / Polyene macrolide antibiotic (topical anti-infective for fungal eye infections).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

Active ingredient: Natamycin 5% w/v (50 mg/ml). Formulated as a sterile ophthalmic suspension. Excipients: Benzalkonium chloride (preservative, typically 0.02%), sodium hydroxide/hydrochloric acid (pH adjustment), purified water (inactive ingredients to adjust pH and provide suspension stability).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant: 5% w/v ophthalmic suspension in 5 ml bottle (standard multi-dose presentation; 3 ml variants exist in some markets, but 5 ml is common).

Consume Type:

Ophthalmic (eye drops/suspension; topical instillation into the conjunctival sac; external use only).

Directions/Usage: Adults and children: Shake well before each use. Instil 1 drop into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) every 1-2 hours initially (day and night) for severe fungal keratitis. After 3-4 days (once clinical improvement), reduce to 1 drop 6-8 times daily. Therapy duration: Continue for 14-21 days or until resolution of active fungal keratitis (clinical re-evaluation required; may taper gradually). For blepharitis/conjunctivitis: Less frequent initial dosing (4-6 times daily) may suffice. Technique: Wash hands, tilt head back, pull lower eyelid down, apply drop without touching dropper to eye/lid, close eye gently, blink to spread. Blot excess. Remove contact lenses before use (wait 15 minutes to reinsert). Follow ophthalmologist instructions; do not exceed or stop early without guidance.

Common Side Effects:

• Eye irritation/discomfort, burning/stinging sensation (initially)
• Transient blurred vision
• Eye redness/hyperaemia
• Foreign body sensation
• Increased tearing
• Rare: Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, severe irritation), corneal opacity, or vision changes Most mild/transient; side effects uncommon beyond initial application.

Package Type:

Plastic dropper bottle of 5 ml (sterile, with nozzle tip and screw cap; often in carton box with leaflet; multi-dose).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (2-25°C or 36-77°F; some labels specify 2-24°C). Protect from light and excessive heat. Do not freeze. Keep tightly closed. Discard 4 weeks (28 days) after first opening (or as labelled). Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For ophthalmic use only; avoid contamination (do not touch dropper tip to eye/surface).
• Contraindicated in hypersensitivity to natamycin or excipients.
• Caution in known allergy to preservatives (benzalkonium chloride may irritate).
• Do not use contact lenses during treatment (or until cleared by doctor).
• If no improvement after 7-10 days, re-evaluate (infection may be non-susceptible; may require alternative therapy).
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Use if benefits outweigh risks (limited data; Category C equivalent).
• Report severe irritation, pain, vision changes, or no improvement promptly (may indicate resistance or need for culture-guided therapy).
• Shake well before use; suspension may settle.

Product Substitutes: Other natamycin 5% ophthalmic suspensions: Natacyn (original Alcon/Novartis), Natamet (Sun Pharma), Natacin (Entod Pharmaceuticals), or generics from various importers. Alternatives: Amphotericin B eye drops (compounded), voriconazole eye drops, or systemic antifungals (e.g., oral voriconazole) for severe cases—consult ophthalmologist per guidelines (natamycin is first-line for filamentous fungal keratitis).

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (Sun Pharma; Indian multinational; Natamet is their branded generic natamycin ophthalmic suspension).

Country of Origin:

India.