Tobrex (Tobramycin) Eye Ointment 0.3%, 3.5g

What is Tobrex (Tobramycin) Eye Ointment?

Tobrex (Tobramycin) Eye Ointment is a topical antibiotic medication designed to treat external bacterial infections of the eye and surrounding tissues, such as conjunctivitis.

It contains 0.3% Tobramycin as the active ingredient, which belongs to the aminoglycoside class of antibiotics.

This eye ointment is used to combat infections caused by bacteria that are sensitive to Tobramycin.

It is suitable for use in adults and children aged one year and older.

How is Tobrex Eye Ointment Used?

Dosage for Adults: For mild to moderate infections, apply approximately 1 cm of the ointment to the affected eye(s) two to three times daily for a week. For more severe infections, the same amount should be applied every three to four hours until improvement is observed, then gradually reduce the frequency of application as the infection resolves.

Dosage for Children: Tobrex can be used in children aged one year and older with the same dosage as adults. The safety and effectiveness in children under one year of age have not been established.

Special Populations: For elderly patients, no dosage adjustment is necessary. The safety and effectiveness of Tobrex in patients with liver or kidney impairment have not been established.

Application Method: Tobrex is intended for ophthalmic use only. If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applications, with Tobrex being the last to be applied. To prevent contamination, avoid touching the tip of the tube to any surface and close the tube tightly after use.

What Should You Know Before Using Tobrex Eye Ointment?

Contraindications: Do not use Tobrex if you are allergic to Tobramycin or any other ingredient in the ointment.

Potential Interactions: No clinically significant interactions have been reported with local ophthalmic use. However, if you are using systemic aminoglycosides, monitor the overall concentration of Tobramycin in your blood to avoid toxicity.

Special Warnings:

• Tobrex is for topical ophthalmic use only.
• Some patients may develop sensitivity to aminoglycosides. If you experience an allergic reaction, discontinue use immediately.
• Prolonged use may lead to the growth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If this occurs, initiate appropriate therapy.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses during treatment with Tobrex.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

• Limited data is available on the use of Tobramycin in pregnant women. It is expected that systemic exposure from topical use is low. However, use during pregnancy should only occur if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
• Tobramycin is excreted in breast milk following systemic administration. It is not known if it is excreted in breast milk after topical use. The risk to nursing infants is considered low, but a decision should be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or the medication.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Tobrex Eye Ointment?

Common Side Effects:

• Eye discomfort
• Eye redness

Uncommon Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions
• Keratitis, corneal erosion, vision disturbances, blurred vision, eyelid redness, conjunctival swelling, eyelid swelling, eye pain, dry eyes, eye discharge, eye itching, increased tear production
• Skin reactions like hives, dermatitis, eyelash loss, vitiligo, skin dryness

Rare but Serious Side Effects:

• Anaphylactic reactions
• Severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome

If you experience any side effects, especially severe ones, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

How Should Tobrex Eye Ointment Be Stored?

Store Tobrex Eye Ointment at temperatures between 8°C and 30°C (46°F to 86°F) and keep it out of reach of children. The ointment remains effective for up to four weeks after the tube is opened. Do not use it after the expiration date.