Tobramycin Ophthalmic Solution USP 0.3%w/v
Tobramycin Ophthalmic Solution is an anti-bacterial eye drop that is used to treat eye infections caused by bacteria. It also has tobramycin, which stops bacterial growth. It is typically administered for conjunctivitis (or “pink eye”) and surface infections of the eye.
You will put a few drops in the eye(s) you are having trouble with, as directed by your doctor. You will always want to review the doctor’s instructions for your ordered dose. You do not want to touch the dropper to any surface (including your eyes) in order not to contaminate the drops. Side effects may include some mild temporary stinging or burning of the eyes after putting in the drops. If you notice considerable discomfort or vision changes, I would phone your health care provider. Generally, it is advisable to talk with your doctor regarding the use of prescribed medicine if you have any other eye disease of the eyes or are applying any other medicine to your eyes.
Benefits:
- Directly targets and eliminates a range of bacteria causing infections in the eyes.
- Begins to act sooner to reduce the symptoms of infection, such as redness, swelling, and discharge.
- It can be administered as eye drops, so it is easy for patients to self-treat in the comfort of their own homes.
- Acts primarily locally within the eye, which minimizes the risk of side effects compared to oral antibiotics.
- Well tolerated in general with mild side effects, only transient stinging or burning.
- It is useful for all types of bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and keratitis.
- Prevents overwhelming complications from untreated infection and preserves vision.
Uses:
It works by inhibiting the growth of the causative bacteria of infection. It helps to provide relief for symptoms of eye infection, like discomfort, redness, itching, and soreness. Your doctor will decide on the dosage, and his word is to be obeyed for the duration of treatment.
Directions to Use:
- Take the medication as directed by your physician regarding dosage and timing.
- Lie down and tilt your head back.
- Gently pull down your lower eyelid using your index finger and create a pocket.
- Instill the drops recommended by the doctor into the lower eyelid pocket.
- Close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Avoid touching the dropper tip or other dispensing tip with any surface, as this can contaminate the solution.
Storage:
Keep this solution in a dry, cool place. Do not store this solution within the reach of children and pets. Do not store this in direct sunlight.
Dosage:
Use this suspension in a precise dose as prescribed by your healthcare professional. Instill the recommended drops of this suspension in your eyes as advised by your healthcare professional.
Side Effects:
- Eye redness
- Eye itching
- Burning sensation
- Eye irritation
Precautions:
- Don’t miss any dose and complete the entire course of treatment even if you are feeling better.
- Tobramycin Ophthalmic Solution can cause corneal damage with long-term use.
- Close the eye and press the corner of the eye (near the nose) for approximately 1 minute upon instilling the drop.
- Wait 5-10 minutes before administering the next dose in the same eye to prevent dilution.
- A stinging effect can be felt for 1-2 minutes. Inform your doctor if it continues longer.
- Ensure to use it within 4 weeks of opening the bottle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q. Does Tobramycin Ophthalmic Solution contain a steroid?
No, Tobramycin Ophthalmic Solution by itself has no steroids in it. It is an antibiotic, that is, it works against bacterial infections. It does not work against viral or fungal infections and thus should not be given in these types of infections. Tobramycin can be mixed with steroids like dexamethasone.
Q. How long should you use Tobramycin Ophthalmic Solution?
The duration of treatment will be determined by the doctor depending on the severity of infection. For example, in case of mild to moderate eye infection, your doctor will recommend 1-2 drops in the eye 4 times a day, typically. In severe infection, you might be given 2 drops hourly.