Description
Indications
Tobradex Eyedrops are prescribed for cases of steroid-responsive inflammatory eye conditions requiring a corticosteroid, and when there is a presence or risk of superficial bacterial eye infection.
Tobradex Eyedrops comprise two components: tobramycin and dexamethasone. Tobramycin, classified as an aminoglycoside antibiotic, works by hindering bacterial growth. Conversely, dexamethasone, categorized as a corticosteroid, works by mitigating inflammation.
Uses and Dosage
Before using Tobradex Eyedrops 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 questions.
The recommended administration of Tobradex Eyedrops is typically one or two drops into the conjunctival sac(s) every four to six hours. However, in the initial 24 to 48 hours, it may be necessary to increase the dosage to one or two drops every two (2) hours.
The frequency of use of these eye drops should be gradually reduced as clinical signs improve, ensuring therapy is not stopped prematurely.
To properly administer Tobradex Eyedrops, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the eyedrop. Make sure not to touch the dropper tip or let it come into contact with your eye or any surfaces to prevent contamination.
- Gently shake the eye drops to ensure proper mixing of the medicine.
- Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid.
- Hold the dropper above your eye while looking away from it.
- Gently squeeze out a drop into your eye and then close your eye.
- Apply slight pressure to the inner corner of your eye (near your nose) for about a minute to prevent the liquid from draining into your tear duct. Refrain from blinking or rubbing your eye during this time.
- If you need to use multiple drops in the same eye, wait approximately 5 minutes between each application.
- If you are using drops in both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye.
- Do not rinse the dropper. After each use, replace the dropper cap.
Seek medical advice on wearing contact lenses while using Tobradex Eyedrops. After applying the eye drop, wait at least 15 minutes before putting in your contacts, unless specifically instructed otherwise by your doctor.
For optimal results, use Tobradex Eyedrops exactly as directed at a regular time each day.
Keep using this eye drop for the entire duration prescribed, even if symptoms disappear within a few days. Discontinuing its use prematurely could permit bacteria to persist and potentially lead to a recurrence of the infection.
In case of worsening symptoms or lack of improvement within a few days, consult your doctor.
Side Effects
Most users of Tobradex Eyedrops do not experience severe side effects. Nonetheless, common ones can still occur, such as:
- Temporary blurred vision
- Eye redness
- Eye discomfort
- Eyelid itching or swelling
Should any of these effects persist or worsen, promptly inform your doctor.
Extended and frequent use of Tobradex Eyedrops may lead to the development of a new fungal eye infection and heighten the likelihood of other ocular complications, such as glaucoma or cataracts. Adhere strictly to the prescribed duration of medication usage and promptly inform your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- New or worsening eye symptoms (such as discharge or swelling)
- Changes in vision
- Eye pain
Allergic Reactions
Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Tobradex Eyedrops may occur. Prompt medical assistance is necessary upon observing any indications of an allergic response, including:
- Rash
- Face, tongue, or throat swelling or itching
- Severe dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
Not all side effects of Tobradex Eyedrops are included in this list. Report to your doctor if any unlisted symptoms occur.
Cautions
Before starting treatment with Tobradex Eyedrops, notify your doctor of any known allergies, particularly to tobramycin, dexamethasone, or other aminoglycoside antibiotics such as gentamicin.
Tobradex Eyedrops may include inactive components, like benzalkonium chloride preservatives that could lead to allergic reactions or other issues. For further information, consult your pharmacist.
To ensure Tobradex Eyedrops are safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of other eye problems like glaucoma.
Inform your healthcare provider about the use of oral steroid medications such as prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone, and others) before initiating Tobradex Eyedrops.
Moreover, consult with your doctor and pharmacist regarding the use of any prescribed or over-the-counter medications, as well as vitamins and herbal supplements to lower the risk of drug interaction with Tobradex Eyedrops.
Following the application of Tobradex Eye Drops, there may be a temporary occurrence of blurred or unsteady vision. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in visually demanding tasks until visual clarity is restored and it is safe to do so.
Tobradex Eyedrops should only be used when necessary during pregnancy. Consult your doctor to evaluate the pros and cons of its usage.
The transfer of tobramycin or dexamethasone into breast milk remains undetermined. Seek medical advice before administering this eye drop if you are breastfeeding a child.