PHARMACOLOGY

Framycetin, a broad-spectrum amino glycoside antibiotic, is usually bactericidal in action. Although the exact mechanism of action has not been fully elucidated, the drug appears to inhibit protein synthesis in susceptible bacteria by binding to ribosomal subunits. In general, framycetin is active against many aerobic gram-negative bacteria and some aerobic gram-positive bacteria. The drug is inactive against fungi, viruses, and most anaerobic bacteria.

INDICATIONS

For local use in the treatment of infections caused by pyogenic organisms, in particular S. aureus, the proteus group of bacteria, coliforms and P. aeruginosa.

Treatment of bacterial blepharitis, conjunctivitis, styes, corneal abrasions and burns; prophylactically following removal of foreign bodies; corneal ulcers (sole treatment or as an adjunct to subconjunctival injection of framycetin).

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Sensitivity to framycetin. Framycetin should never be administered either i.v. or i.m. in view of the risk of irreversible ototoxicity or reversible nephrotoxicity.

PRECAUTIONS

Cross sensitization may occur among the group of Streptomyces derived antibiotics (neomycin, paromomycin, kanamycin) of which framycetin is a member, but this is not invariable. Prolonged use of antibiotics may result in the overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms, including fungi. Appropriate measures should be taken if this occurs.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Drops for rapid action: 1 or 2 drops every 1 or 2 hours in acute conditions (generally for 2 or 3 days), reducing to 1 or 2 drops, 3 or 4 times daily.

AVAILABILITY OF DOSAGE FORMS

Each mL of drops (pH is 5.8 to 6.8): framycetin sulfate BP 5 mg in a sterile, buffered, isotonic aqueous solution. Bottles of 8 mL. Store all Soframycin products at controlled room temperature.

STORAGE