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. Dexamethasone belongs to a class of drugs called
corticosteroids. It works by reducing swelling.
This medication treats/prevents only bacterial eye
infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary
use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased
effectiveness.
Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed
by your doctor, usually every 4 to 6 hours.
To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid
contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any
other surface. Shake the bottle well before each dose.
Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this
medicine. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer's directions
and check with your doctor before you begin using them
again.
Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the
lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and
place one drop into the pouch. Look downward and gently close your eyes for
1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose)
and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining
out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your
other eye if so directed, and if your dose is for more than 1 drop. The
dosage is based on your medical condition and response to
treatment.
Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after
each use.
If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as
drops or ointments), wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying other
medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to
enter the eye.
Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before
driving or operating machinery.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most
benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
Continue to use this medication for the full time prescribed, even if
symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may
result in a return of the infection.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets
worse.
Temporary blurred vision, eye redness, eye discomfort,
and eyelid itching/swelling may occur. If any of these effects last or get
worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Use of this medication for prolonged/repeated periods
may result in a new fungal eye infection and may increase your risk for
other eye problems (such as glaucoma, cataracts). Do not use this
medication for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor right away if you
notice any of the following:
- new or worsening eye symptoms (such as discharge,
swelling)
- vision changes
- eye pain
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using tobramycin with dexamethasone, tell your
doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to either drug; or to other
aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as gentamicin); or if you have any other
allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as
preservatives like benzalkonium chloride), which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- other eye problems (such as glaucoma)
After you apply this drug, your vision may become
temporarily blurred or unstable. Do not drive, use machinery, or do
anything that needs clear vision until you can do it
safely.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone
has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble
breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US
residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call
1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Throw away the unused medication after treatment is
completed. Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor
tells you to.
If you are using this medication for more than 10 days,
lab and/or medical tests (such as eye exams) should be done while you are
using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your
doctor for more details.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store the bottle upright at room temperature away from
light. Some brands may also be stored in the refrigerator. Check the
product package for instructions on how to store your product, or ask your
pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and
pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.