Are you wondering how long it takes for Zylet to work? This antibiotic medication is often prescribed for conditions such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and other bacterial infections of the eye. In this article, we will explore the expected timeline of Zylet’s effectiveness and answer some common questions you may have about this medication.
Table of Contents
What is Zylet?
Zylet is a medication that combines two active ingredients: loteprednol etabonate and tobramycin. Loteprednol etabonate is a steroid that reduces inflammation, while tobramycin is an antibiotic that fights bacterial infections. These two ingredients work together to treat bacterial infections of the eye and reduce symptoms such as redness, swelling, itching, and irritation.
How long does it take for Zylet to work?
The timeline for Zylet’s effectiveness can vary depending on the severity of your infection and your individual response to the medication. In general, you may start to see improvement in your symptoms within the first few days of using Zylet. However, it is important to continue using the medication for the full course prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve before then.
Day 1-2
During the first few days of using Zylet, you may notice some improvement in your symptoms, but it is unlikely that your infection will be fully cleared up at this point. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and continue using the medication as prescribed, even if your symptoms appear to be improving.
Day 3-5
By the third to fifth day of using Zylet, you should start to see more significant improvement in your symptoms. Your eye may feel less swollen and red, and any discharge or crusting should start to clear up. However, it is still important to continue using the medication for the full course prescribed.
Day 6-10
By the sixth to tenth day of using Zylet, your infection should be on its way to being fully cleared up. Your symptoms should be significantly improved, and you may not need to continue using the medication much longer. However, it is still important to finish the full course prescribed by your doctor to ensure that the infection is completely eliminated and does not come back.
What are the side effects of Zylet?
- Eye discomfort or irritation
- Blurred vision
- Itching or redness of the eye
- Watery eyes
- Swelling of the eyelids
- White patches on the surface of the eye
If you experience any of these side effects, you should contact your doctor right away. Some more serious side effects of Zylet can include vision changes, severe burning or stinging in the eye, and signs of allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
How should I use Zylet?
Zylet should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, you will be instructed to apply one or two drops of the solution to the affected eye(s) two to four times per day. Be sure to follow all instructions on the packaging and from your doctor, and do not use this medication for longer than prescribed.
Step-by-step instructions for using Zylet:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before using Zylet.
- Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
- Hold the dropper tip down with your other hand and place one or two drops into the pocket you created with your lower eyelid.
- Gently close your eyes and press a finger against the corner of your eye near your nose for one to two minutes. This will help keep the medication from draining out of your eye.
- Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Can I wear contact lenses while using Zylet?
You should avoid wearing contact lenses while using Zylet, as it can interact with the lenses and cause discomfort or even damage to your eyes. Wait at least 15 minutes after using Zylet before putting your contact lenses back in, and be sure to clean and disinfect them thoroughly before wearing them again.
Can I use Zylet if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Zylet should be used with caution during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should talk to your doctor before using this medication to determine whether it is safe for you and your baby.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Zylet?
If you miss a dose of Zylet, you should use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use extra medication to make up for a missed dose.
When should I contact my doctor while using Zylet?
You should contact your doctor if you experience any severe side effects while using Zylet, such as vision changes or signs of allergic reaction. You should also contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after a few days of using the medication, or if they get worse instead of better.
Conclusion
Zylet can be an effective treatment for bacterial infections of the eye, but it is important to use the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor and to continue using it for the full course prescribed, even if your symptoms appear to be improving. If you have any questions or concerns about using Zylet, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Common Questions and Answers:
- How often should I use Zylet? You will likely be instructed to use Zylet two to four times per day, depending on the severity of your infection and your individual response to the medication.
- Can I use Zylet if I have a viral infection? No, Zylet is only effective against bacterial infections of the eye and will not be effective against viral infections.
- How long should I use Zylet? You should use Zylet for the full course prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms appear to be improving before then.
- Can I drive or operate heavy machinery while using Zylet? Zylet may cause blurred vision or other vision changes, so you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication will affect you.
References:
1. Zylet [package insert]. Fort Worth, TX: Alcon Laboratories, Inc.; 2020.
2. Mayo Clinic. (2021, March 31). Loteprednol and Tobramycin Ophthalmic (Topical Route). Retrieved May 13, 2021, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/loteprednol-etabonate-and-tobramycin-ophthalmic-route/proper-use/drg-20302679
3. MedlinePlus. (2021, January 15). Loteprednol and Tobramycin Ophthalmic. Retrieved May 13, 2021, from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a619044.html