Indications 

Tobradex Eye Ointment is prescribed for steroid-responsive inflammatory eye conditions requiring corticosteroid treatment and when there is a concurrent or potential risk of superficial bacterial eye infection. 

Tobradex Eye Ointment contains a combination of tobramycin and dexamethasone. 

Tobramycin falls under aminoglycoside antibiotics and works by inhibiting bacterial growth, while dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, works by mitigating inflammation. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using Tobradex Eye Ointment and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance if you have any queries. 

The dosage of this medication is determined based on the individual’s medical conditions and response to the treatment. 

Typically, Tobradex Eye Ointment is applied to the affected eye three to four times daily, as prescribed by the doctor. 

To properly administer this eye ointment, follow these steps:  

1. Thoroughly wash your hands before applying the ointment. 
2. Gently tilt your head backward. 
3. Use a finger to gently pull down your lower eyelid, creating a small “V” shaped pocket beneath your eye. 
4. Dispense a small amount (approximately 1/2 inch) of the ointment into the created “V” pocket. Be cautious not to touch the tube tip or allow it to come into contact with your eye to prevent contamination. 
5. Look downward, close your eye, and move your eyeball in all directions to evenly distribute the medication for 1 to 2 minutes. Avoid blinking or rubbing your eye during this time. 
6. If instructed, repeat steps 2-5 for your other eye. 
7. After use, wipe the ointment tube’s tip with a clean tissue to remove any excess medication before securely recapping it. 

If you wear contact lenses, consult your doctor about wearing them while using Tobradex Eye Ointment. Following ointment application, wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting your contact lenses, unless your doctor advises otherwise. 

For best results, apply Tobradex Eye Ointment exactly as directed at the same times every day. 

Continue using this eye ointment for the entire duration prescribed, even if symptoms improve within a few days. Discontinuing its use prematurely could enable bacteria to persist and potentially lead to a recurrence of the infection. 

Reach out to your doctor should your condition deteriorate or fail to improve within a few days of using Tobradex Eye Ointment. 

Side Effects 

The majority of individuals using Tobradex Eye Ointment experience no severe side effects. Nonetheless, common side effects might arise, such as: 

• Temporary blurred vision 
• Eye redness 
• Eye discomfort 
• Itching or swelling of the eyelids.  

If any of these effects persist or worsen, promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist. 

Prolonged or repeated use of Tobradex Eye Ointment may lead to the development of a new fungal eye infection and increase the risk of other eye issues like glaucoma and cataracts. Adhere to the prescribed duration of use and promptly inform your doctor if you experience any of the following:  

• New or worsening eye symptoms (e.g., discharge, swelling) 
• Changes in vision 
• Eye pain 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Tobradex Eye Ointment may occur. Prompt medical help is necessary upon observing any indications of an allergic response, including: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

Not all side effects of Tobradex Eye Ointment are included in this list. Report to your doctor if any unlisted symptoms are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Tobradex Eye Ointment, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to: 

• Tobramycin 
• Dexamethasone 
• Other aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin) 

Seek further guidance from your pharmacist regarding Tobradex Eye Ointment as it might contain inactive components that may cause allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Tobradex Eye Ointment is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of glaucoma. 

Disclose your usage of oral steroid medications like prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone, others) before starting Tobradex Eye Ointment. Furthermore, seek guidance from your doctor and pharmacist concerning the utilization of any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Following the application of Tobradex Eye Ointment, your vision may temporarily become blurred or unsteady. Refrain from operating vehicles, machinery, or engaging in activities that demand clear vision until you can do so safely. 

The use of Tobradex Eye Ointment during pregnancy should be limited to cases where the benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus. Newborns of mothers who have been exposed to significant amounts of corticosteroids during pregnancy should be closely monitored for signs of hypoadrenalism. 

The transfer of tobramycin or dexamethasone into breast milk remains unknown. Prior consultation with your doctor is advised before using this eye ointment while nursing.