Why is Tobradex prescribed?

Tobradex (Tobramycin and Dexamethasone) is prescribed to treat bacterial infections and inflammation of the eyes. Tobradex is specific for bacterial eye infections and no other types of eye infections.

What does it do?

Tobradex has two components: Tobramycin and Dexamethasone. Tobramycin is an antibacterial drug that stops the growth of bacteria which causes infections in your eye. Dexamethasone is classified as a corticosteroid that prevents inflammation and irritation. Together, they help relieve the symptoms experienced by the patients.

How should I apply it?

Tobradex is available either as a 0.3/0.1% ophthalmic ointment in 3.5gm tubes or a 0.3/0.1% ophthalmic solution available in 5ml bottles.

When applying Tobradex, always follow the recommended amount your doctor has prescribed. Follow all directions on the label carefully and ask our doctor or pharmacist for any clarifications.

To apply Tobradex ophthalmic ointment:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water before handling the medication.
2. Remove the cap of the ointment tube and tilt your head back slightly and form a pouch by pulling down the lower lid of your eye with your index finger.
3. Squeeze the tube gently and apply a strip of ointment into the pouch you formed.
4. Look downwards, close the eye and roll your eyeball around in all directions to allow the medication to spread.
5. Remove any excess medication found at the tip of the ointment tube with a clean tissue before placing the cap back.
6. If you are using another eye medication, wait for 5 to 10 minutes before administering the next medication. You should administer eye drops first before eye
ointments to allow absorption of the eye drops.
7. Wash your hands to ensure they are clean and free from any medication.

To apply Tobradex ophthalmic solution:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water before handling the medication.
2. Shake the bottle gently.
3. Inspect the tip of the dropper for any cracks or if it is chipped.
4. Tilt your head back slightly and form a pouch by pulling down the lower lid of your eye with your index finger.
5. Use your other hand to hold the dropper above your eye then look away from the dropper.
6. Gently squeeze the dropper until a drop comes out and close your eye for 2 to 3 minutes and look down towards the floor.
7. Apply gentle pressure to the tear duct (inner corner of your eye) with your finger.
8. If you need to administer more than one drop in the same eye, wait for 5 minutes and repeat the process.

Avoid touching the tip of the ointment tube or dropper with your hands or placing it directly on your eye and do not let it come into contact with any surface. The opening of the is sterile and should not be contaminated with other particles, otherwise it may cause an infection in your eye.

If you suspect your medication to be contaminated, especially when unusual particles are present or any discoloration occurs, stop using the medication and consult your pharmacist.

It is imperative to use Tobradex according to your doctor’s prescription. Use it only for the recommended duration and amount stated. Do not use more or less than the recommended dosage prescribed by your doctor.

What if I missed a dose?

If you miss a dose, administer the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take it on your next scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose, unless told otherwise.

The desired effects of prescribed medications will only be achieved if used properly. As much as possible, strictly follow your doctor’s prescribed dosing schedule.

What are the special precautions before using Tobradex?

Before using Tobradex, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to tobramycin, dexamethasone, and other antibiotics such as gentamycin. This product may contain inactive ingredients which can cause anaphylactic reactions in sensitive patients.

Also inform your doctor or pharmacist of other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking or planning to take.

If you have or have a history of diabetes or glaucoma, also inform your doctor.

If you have a viral or fungal eye infection, do not use Tobradex. It is intended only for bacterial eye infections and will not treat any other causes of eye infections.

This medication may cause blurry vision after application. Make sure your vision is clear before doing activities such as driving and operating machinery to ensure your safety.

Avoid the use of contact lenses while using this medication and ask your doctor for alternatives.

For the drug label information of Tobradex, click here.

Does it have any side effects?

It is important to note that all drugs have corresponding side effects and adverse reactions. Additional information may be obtained when you ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects include:
• Blurry vision
• Eye redness
• Light sensitivity
• Mild itching or swelling of the eyelid
• Teary eyes

Serious side effects include:
• Eye discharge
• Eye pain
• Pressure in the eye
• Severe vision changes
• Swelling of the eye

Is it safe to use it with another drug?

Some drug interactions may cause life-threatening reactions when taken with other medications. Immediately inform your doctor if you are using Tobradex with any of the following medications:

• Furosemide
• Gentamycin
• Lansoprazole
• Lasix
• Prednisone
• Prevacid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for other possible interactions not listed within this section.

How should I store it?

Store Tobradex at room temperature, in a clean environment away from excessive sunlight, heat, and moisture.

Keep out of reach of children and pets. Keep it tightly closed after use.

Dispose the medication if expired or unneeded to prevent anyone else from using it. Always discard the medication properly and do not flush it down the toilet or the sink.

What action should I take in case of overdose?

Overdose with Tobradex is not common. However, if you swallow it or suspect an overdose, immediately contact an emergency room or poison control center for advice.

Is it safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

The use of Tobramycin and Dexamethasone should only be used when deemed necessary by your doctor since there are no adequate and well-established studies in pregnant women.

Caution should be exercised when used during breastfeeding as it is not known whether tobramycin and dexamethasone are excreted in breast milk.

Why buy Tobradex online from Canada?

Canadian Prescription Drugstore is an online Canadian pharmacy service that offers the best quality prescription drugs at discounted prices.

Get huge savings of up to 80% when you buy Tobradex from Canada. Buy Canada drugs with confidence from the most trusted online Canadian pharmacy for over 15 years. Get FREE SHIPPING for your online medication orders from our Canadian pharmacy (valid for first-time orders only).

For more information, visit Canadian Prescription Drugstore.