Clinical author's note Michael Stewart 30/02/2018: Tobravisc® eye drops were discontinued in the UK in April 2017. At the time of review there are no branded or generic eye drop products solely containing tobramycin available in the UK. Tobramycin is still available in combination with dexamethasone for the prevention of eye infections following cataract surgery (Tobradex®). Tobramycin eye drops may still be available in other countries. This Medicine Leaflet only covers the use of tobramycin in the treatment of eye infections and is based on medical information available in the UK at the time of writing. It is left here for reference purposes only. Please also refer to the manufacturer's information supplied with your medicine. Show
About tobramycin for eye infections
Tobramycin eye drops are prescribed to treat bacterial eye infections. They work by helping to kill the germs (bacteria) which are causing the infection. Eye infections are a common cause of conjunctivitis. In conjunctivitis, your eye becomes inflamed, feels gritty, and may water more than usual. The white of your eye may look red, and your eyelids may become swollen and stuck together with a discharge when you wake up in the morning. Only one eye may be infected to begin with, but it often spreads to both eyes. Although infective conjunctivitis may clear without treatment, for more severe infections or for infections which do not clear on their own, antibiotic eye drops like tobramycin are helpful. Tobramycin is also available combined with a medicine called dexamethasone in eye drops called Tobradex®. This combination brand helps to prevent infection and reduces inflammation after eye cataract surgery. Before using tobramycin eye dropsSome medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start using tobramycin eye drops it is important that your doctor knows:
How to use tobramycin eye drops
Getting the most from your treatment
Can tobramycin eye drops cause problems?Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains some of the most common ones associated with tobramycin eye drops. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with the drops. Speak with your doctor if any of the following continue or become troublesome.
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the eye drops, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice. How to store tobramycin eye drops
Important information about all medicinesMake sure that the person supplying this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking or using. This includes any medicines you have bought, and herbal and homeopathic medicines. If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are using. This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours. If you suspect that someone might have swallowed some of this medicine, contact your local accident and emergency department for advice. Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you. If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist. How many days do you use tobramycin for pink eye?Tobramycin. Typical dosing recommendations for tobramycin instruct you to use the eye drops every 4 hours for 5 to 7 days. Tobramycin falls under the aminoglycoside antibiotic category. It primarily treats Gram-negative bacterial infections.
Can you treat pink eye with tobramycin?Although infective conjunctivitis may clear without treatment, for more severe infections or for infections which do not clear on their own, antibiotic eye drops like tobramycin are helpful. Tobramycin is also available combined with a medicine called dexamethasone in eye drops called Tobradex®.
How long does it take for tobramycin and dexamethasone to work?Most bacterial infections will show some improvement using TobraDex for 2 to 3 days. If the infection shows no improvement within 2 to 3 days, consider culturing or changing to another medication.
What is tobramycin and dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension used to treat?This medication is used to treat or prevent eye infections. This medication contains two drugs. Tobramycin belongs to a class of drugs called aminoglycoside antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
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