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What is tobramycin eye ointment or solution?
TOBRAMYCIN (Tobrex®) is an aminoglycoside antibiotic. The eye ointment or solution is for treating external bacterial infections of the eye. A generic tobramycin eye solution is available, but not an eye ointment.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an unusual or allergic reaction to tobramycin or other antibiotics, sulfites, foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Tobramycin eye solution or eye ointment is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper, or tube, to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch: or, if using the ointment, squeeze the end of the tube to apply a thin layer of the ointment to the inside of the lower eyelid. Close the eye gently to spread the drops or ointment. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. 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 think your condition is better.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What drug(s) may interact with tobramycin?
Do not use any other eye products without consulting your prescriber or health care professional. Check before stopping or starting any of your medicines or non-prescription products.
What should I watch for while taking tobramycin?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve in a few days.
A burning or stinging reaction that does not go away may mean you are allergic to this product. Stop using and call your prescriber or health care professional.
Tobramycin can make certain eye conditions worse. Only use it for conditions for which your prescriber or health care professional has prescribed.
To prevent the spread of infection, do not share eye products, towels and washcloths with anyone else. Throw away any unused eye products.
What side effects may I notice from using tobramycin?
These are possible serious side effects with tobramycin:
• burning, stinging or swelling of the eyelids
Other serious side effects are rare from the use of eye products; they include:
• difficulty hearing
• dizziness
• loss of balance
• muscle weakness
• nausea, vomiting
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• ringing in the ears
Minor side effects include:
• blurred vision
• eye irritation, itching
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 2 and 27 degrees C (36 and 80 degrees F); do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
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.
