Natamycin (Natacyn®)

Natamycin (Natacyn®)

By: PetPlace Veterinarians

Overview

  • Natamycin is an anti-fungal agent used to treat fungal keratitis.
  • Natamycin is effective against a wide variety of fungi, including Aspergillus, Fusarium, Curvularia, Penicillium, Candida, Blastomyces, Histoplasma and Cephalosporium. It is not effective as against bacteria.
  • Natamycin (formerly known as pimaricin) belongs to the class of anti-fungal drugs that include nystatin and Amphotericin B.
  • Natamycin is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.
  • This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an [[rol||extra-label|The medical use of a drug for a purpose, or in a species, not approved "on the label" by the FDA.
    Many human drugs are used in animals in an extra-label manner.]] drug.

    Brand Names and Other Names

  • This drug is registered for use in humans only.
  • Human formulations: Natacyn® (Alcon)
  • Veterinary formulations: None

    Uses of Natamycin

  • Natamycin is used in the treatment of fungal keratitis.
  • It is also used to treat fungal blepharitis and conjunctivitis.

    Precautions and Side Effects

  • While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, natamycin can potentially cause side effects in some animals.
  • Natamycin should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.
  • Topical administration of natamycin is usually well tolerated. Irritation to the eye has been reported, but such an occurrence is rare.
  • There has been no reported adverse drug interactions when natamycin is administered topically. Because of its limited spectrum of activity, it is commonly administered with topical antibiotics.

    How Natamycin Is Supplied

  • Natamycin is available as a 5% suspension in 15 ml glass bottles with a sterile eyedropper.

    Dosing Information

  • Medications should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.
  • For fungal keratitis, natamycin is often administered every 2 hours for 4 to 7 days, then every 2 to 6 hours for 3 to 6 weeks.
  • Fungal blepharitis and conjunctivitis may respond to administration of natamycin every 4 to 6 hours.
  • The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be sure to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance.



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