Chemical formula:
- Drug Forms:
- Polymyxin B eye solution (below)
- Polymyxin B Sulfate Solution for injection
Polymyxin B eye solution
What is polymyxin B eye solution?
POLYMYXIN B is an antibiotic used for serious eye infections that do not respond to other antibiotics. Generic polymyxin B is available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• use contact lenses
• an unusual or allergic reaction to polymyxin B or products containing polymyxin B (such as Polysporin® or Neosporin®), foods, dyes or preservatives
How should I use this medicine?
Polymyxin B eye solution should only be used in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower lid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Place the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close your eye gently to spread the drops. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course of medicine prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you feel better.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.What other medicines will interact with polymyxin B eye solution?
Do not use any other eye products without consulting with your prescriber or health care professional. Check before stopping or starting any of your eye medicines or non-prescription products.
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking polymyxin B eye solution?
Check with your prescriber or health care professional if your infection does not get better within 5 days. Persistent burning and itching of the eyelids may mean that you have an allergic reaction or an infection that will not get better with polymyxin B.
To prevent the spread of infection, do not share skin or eye products, or share towels and washcloths with anyone else.
If you wear contact lenses, ask your prescriber or health care professional when you can use your lenses again.
What side effects may I notice from using polymyxin B eye solution?
If polymyxin B eye solution is used for a long period of time, serious side effects may develop. Report any unusual effects to your prescriber or health care professional.
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• blurred or decreased vision right after using the drops (that not will go away)
• burning, stinging or swelling of the eyelid
• watery eyes
• rash around the eyes or any other skin rash
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• burning, stinging, or redness of the eye after using the drops
• eye irritation or itching
• temporary watering or blurring of vision
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
The eye solution should be stored in a refrigerator; do not freeze. Discard after the expiration date on the bottle.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
