Gentamicin + Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)

This is a combination eye drop or eye ointment that contains:

• Gentamicin – an antibiotic

• Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) – a lubricant/artificial tear

It is designed to treat bacterial eye infections while also keeping the eye surface moist.

Components and Their Roles

1. Gentamicin

   • Type: Aminoglycoside antibiotic

   • Action: Kills or stops the growth of bacteria by blocking their protein production.

   • Purpose: Treats bacterial infections like conjunctivitis, keratitis, or blepharitis.

2. Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)

   • Type: Ocular lubricant (artificial tear)

   • Action: Forms a protective, moisturizing film over the eye surface.

   • Purpose: Relieves dryness, irritation, and soothes the eye while it heals.

Common Uses

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye caused by bacteria)

• Keratitis (corneal infection) with dryness or irritation

• Blepharitis with associated dryness

• Situations where infection treatment and lubrication are both needed — e.g., after eye surgery

Advantages

• Treats infection and provides moisture for comfort at the same time

• Lubricant reduces irritation caused by infection and by frequent use of antibiotic drops

• Helps protect the cornea while it heals

Possible Side Effects

From Gentamicin:

• Temporary stinging, burning, or redness

• Rare allergic reaction

From HPMC:

• Temporary blurred vision after application

• Very mild stinging in some cases

Precautions

• Use as prescribed — overuse of antibiotic can promote resistance.

• Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye or skin to prevent contamination.

• If using other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes before applying them.