Hexamidine (Eye Drop)

Hexamidine is an antiseptic eye drop used as an alternative treatment for a serious eye infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis.

Drug class	Anti-amoebic
Type	Single
Forms	Eye Drop
Common strength	0.1%
Common Indian brands	Desomedine (abroad)
Prescription status	Prescription

What Hexamidine is used for

Hexamidine is an eye medicine primarily used to treat a severe and rare eye infection known as Acanthamoeba keratitis. This condition affects the cornea, which is the clear front part of your eye.

• Acanthamoeba keratitis (as an alternative diamidine)

Acanthamoeba keratitis is a serious infection caused by a microscopic organism called Acanthamoeba. These organisms are commonly found in water sources, soil, and air. The infection can lead to significant pain, redness, blurred vision, and if not treated effectively, can cause permanent vision loss or even require a corneal transplant. It is particularly common among contact lens wearers who do not follow proper hygiene practices, such as cleaning lenses with tap water or swimming while wearing them. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are crucial for managing this condition and preserving vision.

How it works

Hexamidine works as an antiseptic diamidine. This means it has properties that help to kill or stop the growth of microorganisms. Specifically, it is active against Acanthamoeba, the microscopic organism responsible for Acanthamoeba keratitis. By targeting these organisms, Hexamidine helps to clear the infection from the cornea, reducing inflammation and allowing the eye to heal. Its antiseptic action helps to disinfect the infected area, preventing the amoeba from multiplying and causing further damage to the eye’s delicate tissues.

How it’s used

Hexamidine eye drops are used strictly as directed by a qualified ophthalmologist. The dosing for Acanthamoeba keratitis is typically very specific and involves a protocol that is tapered over several months. This means you will likely start with a higher frequency of drops, which will then be gradually reduced as your eye heals and the infection comes under control. It is extremely important to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely, even if your eye starts to feel better. Stopping the medication too early can lead to a recurrence of the infection, which can be more difficult to treat. Your ophthalmologist will provide a detailed schedule and monitor your progress closely throughout the treatment period.

The treatment for Acanthamoeba keratitis is often prolonged, sometimes lasting for many months. Consistency is key. Missing doses or not completing the full course of treatment can have serious consequences for your vision. Always ensure you understand the dosing schedule and ask your doctor or pharmacist if anything is unclear. Do not adjust the dosage or stop the medication without consulting your ophthalmologist.

Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.

Brands available in India

• Desomedine (abroad)

Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.

Precautions & side effects

Hexamidine is a prescription eye medicine and should only be used under the direct supervision of a qualified ophthalmologist. It is often used as an adjunct or alternative to other treatments, such as PHMB (polyhexamethylene biguanide) and chlorhexidine, which are also used for Acanthamoeba keratitis.

• Prescription Only: This medicine requires a prescription from an ophthalmologist. Do not self-medicate.
• Follow Directions: Use strictly as directed by your doctor. The dosing schedule for Acanthamoeba keratitis is complex and tapered over months.
• Not a Substitute: This page provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription.
• No Self-Medication: Do not reuse an old prescription or use this medicine for any condition other than what it was prescribed for.
• Availability in India: Hexamidine (specifically brands like Desomedine) is not currently approved or routinely available in India. It is included here for reference. Please discuss approved and available alternatives with your ophthalmologist.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, your doctor will likely advise you to stop wearing them during treatment. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions regarding contact lens use.
• Storage: Store the eye drops as instructed by your pharmacist or doctor, typically in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly before applying eye drops to prevent further contamination.

Understanding Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare but very serious infection of the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front surface of your eye. It is caused by a microscopic organism called Acanthamoeba, which is commonly found in various environments like soil, dust, fresh water (lakes, rivers, tap water), and even swimming pools. While anyone can get this infection, it is most frequently seen in contact lens wearers. Poor contact lens hygiene, such as cleaning lenses with tap water, swimming or showering while wearing lenses, or not properly disinfecting lenses, significantly increases the risk. Symptoms often include severe eye pain, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and a feeling that something is in your eye. Because these symptoms can be similar to other, less serious eye infections, it’s crucial to see an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) immediately if you experience them, especially if you are a contact lens wearer. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment and preventing permanent vision loss.

The treatment for Acanthamoeba keratitis is often prolonged and requires consistent use of prescribed medications, sometimes for several months. It’s a challenging infection to treat, which is why following your doctor’s instructions meticulously is so important. Your ophthalmologist will monitor your progress closely and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Never stop your medication without consulting your doctor, even if your symptoms seem to improve, as this can lead to a relapse of the infection.

Correctly Using Eye Drops

Using eye drops correctly is vital for the medicine to work effectively and to prevent further infection or irritation. Here’s a simple guide:

1. Wash Your Hands: Always start by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water. This is the most important step to prevent contamination.
2. Prepare the Bottle: If the bottle has a cap, twist it off carefully. Make sure the dropper tip does not touch any surface, including your fingers, to keep it sterile.
3. Tilt Your Head: Gently tilt your head backward. You can also lie down if that’s more comfortable.
4. Create a Pouch: With one hand, gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pouch.
5. Administer the Drop: Hold the eye drop bottle upside down with the other hand, positioning the tip directly over your eye. Avoid touching your eye with the tip of the bottle. Look upwards and gently squeeze the bottle to release one drop into the pouch you created.
6. Close Your Eye: Gently close your eye for a minute or two. Avoid blinking or squeezing your eyes shut forcefully, as this can push the medicine out.
7. Apply Pressure: You can gently press your finger against the inner corner of your eye (near your nose) for about a minute. This helps prevent the medicine from draining into your tear duct and ensures more of it stays on your eye.
8. Wipe Excess: Gently blot any excess liquid around your eye with a clean tissue.
9. Replace Cap: Replace the cap tightly on the bottle.
10. Multiple Drops: If you need to use more than one type of eye drop, wait at least 5-10 minutes between different medications to allow each drop to be absorbed properly.

Remember, if you find it difficult to apply drops yourself, ask a family member or friend for help. Never share your eye drops with anyone else, as this can spread infection.

General Hygiene, Storage, and When to Seek Help

Maintaining good hygiene is paramount when dealing with eye conditions, especially infections. Always wash your hands before and after touching your eyes or applying eye drops. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can worsen irritation or spread infection. If you wear contact lenses, your ophthalmologist will likely advise you to stop wearing them completely during treatment for Acanthamoeba keratitis. If you must wear them after treatment, ensure you follow stringent hygiene practices, including using only recommended cleaning solutions, never tap water, and replacing lenses as advised.

Proper storage of your eye medicine is also important. Store Hexamidine eye drops as instructed by your pharmacist or doctor, typically in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Check the expiry date on the bottle and discard any expired medication. Once opened, eye drop bottles have a limited shelf life (usually 28 days), even if there’s medicine left. Always follow the instructions on the packaging or from your pharmacist regarding disposal after opening.

It is crucial to know when to seek further medical help. If your symptoms worsen, you experience new symptoms, or if you have any concerns about your treatment, contact your ophthalmologist immediately. Signs that may warrant urgent attention include increased pain, worsening redness, significant decrease in vision, or discharge from the eye. Always remember that this page is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or a prescription. For any eye-related concerns, always consult a qualified ophthalmologist at Pristine Eye Hospitals.

Frequently asked questions

What is Hexamidine used for?

Hexamidine is an eye drop used as an alternative treatment for a serious eye infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis, which affects the cornea.

How does Hexamidine work?

Hexamidine works as an antiseptic diamidine, meaning it helps to kill or stop the growth of the Acanthamoeba organisms responsible for the infection in the eye.

What are the common Indian brands for Hexamidine?

Hexamidine, specifically brands like Desomedine (which is available abroad), is not currently approved or routinely available in India. Please consult your ophthalmologist about approved and available alternatives in India.

How should I use Hexamidine eye drops?

Hexamidine eye drops must be used strictly as directed by your ophthalmologist. The dosing protocol for Acanthamoeba keratitis is specific and is tapered over several months. It is crucial to follow the prescribed schedule precisely and not stop the medication early.

Do I need a prescription for Hexamidine?

Yes, Hexamidine is a prescription eye medicine and can only be used under the direct supervision of a qualified ophthalmologist. Do not self-medicate or reuse old prescriptions.

What are the key precautions I should take while using Hexamidine?

Key precautions include using it only as prescribed by an ophthalmologist, not self-medicating, understanding that it's not routinely available in India (so discuss alternatives with your doctor), and maintaining strict hygiene when applying the drops. If you wear contact lenses, your doctor will likely advise you to stop wearing them during treatment.

References

1. Corneal Conditions – National Eye Institute
2. Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
3. Eye health information – American Academy of Ophthalmology
4. Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
5. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

---

Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.

This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.