Pyricot 5 ml

Pyricort Eye/Ear Drops is a sterile ophthalmic and otic solution available in a 10 ml bottle. Each ml of the solution contains Gentamicin Sulphate 3 mg (0.3% w/v) and Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate 1 mg (0.1% w/v) as the active ingredients, along with a preservative and sterile aqueous vehicle. The product is strictly for external ophthalmic and otic use only and must not be injected or ingested. It is a combination preparation containing a broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic and a potent corticosteroid, used for the treatment of bacterial eye and ear infections accompanied by inflammation. The product is packaged in a clean white box with the brand name “PYRICORT” displayed prominently in bold blue capital letters in the center, with a spiral of blue dots as a graphic design element below the brand name.

Gentamicin Sulphate is a broad-spectrum aminoglycoside antibiotic that works by binding irreversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, thereby inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. This binding causes misreading of the genetic code and the production of abnormal proteins, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death. This bactericidal mechanism gives gentamicin a wide spectrum of activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including common eye and ear pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus species, and Klebsiella species. The drug achieves good penetration into the cornea, aqueous humor, and middle ear fluid, making it effective for both ocular and otic infections. Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate is a potent synthetic corticosteroid that works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins and other inflammatory mediators. It reduces redness, swelling, itching, and pain associated with the infection by suppressing the immune response at the site of infection. Together, these two agents provide both antibacterial action and anti-inflammatory relief, making this combination highly effective for treating infected and inflamed eyes or ears.

The primary indications for Pyricort Eye/Ear Drops are the treatment of superficial bacterial infections of the eye and ear, including bacterial conjunctivitis, blepharitis, keratitis, and otitis externa (outer ear infection, commonly known as swimmer’s ear). It is also indicated for the management of acute otitis media (middle ear infection) in cases where the eardrum is intact. The product is effective in reducing redness, swelling, discharge, pain, and irritation associated with these conditions. It is not effective against viral or fungal infections and should not be used for these conditions. The product is intended for use in adults and children above 1 year of age, though it should be used under medical supervision in pediatric patients.

The recommended dosage for eye infections is 1 to 2 drops instilled into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours for the first 2 days, followed by 1 to 2 drops every 4 hours for the next 2 to 3 days, or as directed by the ophthalmologist. For ear infections, 2 to 3 drops are instilled into the affected ear 2 to 3 times daily. It is essential to complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve before the course is finished, to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and recurrence of infection. Stopping the medicine too early may bring back the infection. The product should only be used under the supervision of a qualified ophthalmologist or otolaryngologist.

The most common side effects include mild burning or stinging sensation in the eye or ear immediately after application, eye discomfort, temporary blurred vision, eye or ear irritation, redness, dryness, and a change in taste (dysgeusia) due to the solution draining through the nasolacrimal duct. Other common side effects include eye itching, increased tearing, foreign body sensation, and mild headache. These effects are generally mild and transient, resolving within a few minutes to a few hours. Uncommon side effects may include keratitis, conjunctivitis, photophobia (light sensitivity), eyelid edema, and ear pain.

Serious but rare side effects include severe hypersensitivity reactions (rash, hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing), which have been reported with aminoglycosides and corticosteroids. Prolonged or inappropriate use of the corticosteroid component may result in increased intraocular pressure leading to glaucoma, posterior subcapsular cataract formation, and delayed wound healing. Fungal superinfection may occur with prolonged use. Gentamicin is also ototoxic and neurotoxic in high systemic concentrations, though this risk is minimal with topical use. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe eye or ear pain, sudden vision changes, persistent redness or swelling, hearing changes, or signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Important precautions include not wearing contact lenses during treatment, as the infection itself and the preservative in the drops can both damage the lenses. If using other eye or ear medications simultaneously, a gap of at least 5 to 10 minutes should be maintained between different drops. Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until their vision is clear after application, as temporary blurred vision is common. The product should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to gentamicin, other aminoglycosides, dexamethasone, or any of the excipients. It should not be used in cases of viral infections of the outer ear canal such as herpes simplex or varicella. The product should not be used if there is a perforated eardrum for ear application, as it could enter the middle ear and cause ototoxicity. It should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma, as the corticosteroid component may increase intraocular pressure. The product is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless the potential benefit clearly outweighs the risk. The dropper tip should not be touched to the eye, ear, or any surface to maintain sterility. The product should not be used if the solution changes color or becomes cloudy.

The product should be stored in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight and kept out of reach of children. The bottle should be tightly closed after each use. The product is available in India at a price range of approximately 30 to 60 rupees per 10 ml bottle and is available through major online pharmacy platforms and offline pharmacies with a valid prescription.