Informational only — Not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider.

Community data Updated 2 months ago

Indications

Natadrop ophthalmic suspension is used to treat fungal infections of the eye caused by susceptible organisms, including fungal blepharitis (infection of the eyelids), conjunctivitis and keratitis (infection of the cornea), including keratitis caused by Fusarium solani.

⚠️ Always consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.

Pharmacology

Natamycin is a tetraene polyene antibiotic obtained from Streptomyces natalensis. It is thought to work against fungi by binding to sterols in the fungal cell membrane, which alters membrane permeability and lets essential cellular contents leak out. It shows in vitro activity against several yeasts and filamentous fungi, including Candida, Aspergillus, Cephalosporium, Fusarium and Penicillium. While its antifungal action is dose-related, Natamycin is mainly fungicidal. Applied topically, it appears to reach effective concentrations within the corneal stroma, but not within the intraocular fluid.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Pregnancy category C. No animal reproduction studies have been carried out with Natamycin, and it is not known whether the drug can harm the fetus or affect fertility when used by a pregnant woman. For this reason, Natamycin ophthalmic suspension should be used during pregnancy only if there is a clear need for it. It is also not known whether Natamycin passes into human breast milk. Since many medicines do pass into breast milk, it should be used with caution in nursing mothers.

⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Dosage Reference

⚠️ Reference ranges from official sources only. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.

Adults: For fungal keratitis: the preferred starting dose is 1 drop placed in the conjunctival sac(s) every 1 to 2 hours. After the first 3 to 4 days, the frequency can usually be reduced to 1 drop 6 to 8 times a day. Treatment should generally continue for 14 to 21 days, or until the active fungal keratitis has cleared. For fungal blepharitis and conjunctivitis: 1 drop 4 to 6 times a day may be enough. Pediatric use: safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.