Zymaxid

Zymaxid is a medication commonly used to treat pink eye, which is known medically as conjunctivitis. It is prescribed for cases of pink eye that are caused by bacteria, and it works by interfering with the process bacteria need to multiply. Most people have no problems with this eye drop; however, side effects are possible. Common ones include pain and irritation in the eye.

What Is Zymaxid?

Zymaxid™ (gatifloxacin) is an antibiotic eye drop licensed to treat conjunctivitis (commonly called pink eye) that is caused by bacteria. It belongs to a group of medications known as fluoroquinolones.
 
(Click Zymaxid Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes It?

Zymaxid is made by Allergan, Inc.
 

How Does Zymaxid Work?

Zymaxid works by killing certain bacteria that cause infections. Specifically, it interferes with the bacterial enzymes DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV. These enzymes are essential for bacteria to make DNA, which is needed for the bacteria to multiply. Zymaxid does not work against viruses.
 

Clinical Effects

In clinical studies, Zymaxid was shown to resolve bacterial conjunctivitis. In these studies, 90 percent of people given the drug for five days had no more of the conjunctivitis-causing bacteria in their eye, compared to 70 percent of people given a placebo eye drop (an eye drop with no active ingredients).
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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