Tobradex Opth Suspension (Tobramycin/Dexamethasone)

What is Tobradex Opth Suspension?

Tobradex is an antibiotic that is a combination of tobramycin and dexamethasone. While Tobramycin belongs to a class of medications called aminoglycoside antibiotics, Dexamethasone is a member of the corticosteroids group.

What is Tobradex Opth Suspension used for?

Tobradex is indicated for the prevention or treatment of eye infections.

It is important to note that Tobradex only prevents or treats eye infections caused by bacteria and not other types of eye infections.

How does Tobradex Opth Suspension work?

One of the ingredients of Tobradex, tobramycin works by stopping bacterial growth, whereas dexamethasone works by reducing the swelling from bacterial growth.

How to use Tobradex Opth Suspension

Tobradex should be used exactly as prescribed by a doctor. Taking the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed can be harmful and may cause problems in the eyes.

Tobradex is available in ointment as well as eye drops. They should be used in whichever format the doctor suggests. In order to apply the ointment, hold the tube for a few minutes to warm it up so that the ointment comes out easily. Tilt your head back slightly and apply a thin film of the ointment into your lower eyelid. Close your eye and roll your eyeball around in all directions for 1 to 2 minutes.

If you are applying any other eye medication, you should allow minimum 10 minutes before application of the other medication.

In order to use eye drops, you should shake the drops gently to be sure the medicine is well mixed. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid. Position the dropper above your eye and squeeze out a drop and close your eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down your tear duct.

If using more than one drop in the same eye, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops. This process should be repeated for the other eye as well.

Tobradex Opth Suspension warnings and precautions

Before you start using Tobradex, you should consult your doctor if you are allergic to any drug; or to other aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin).  This product may contain preservatives like benzalkonium chloride which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. 

You should also discuss with your doctor about eye problems you have had in the past.  It can only be used when clearly needed during pregnancy. Consultation is advisable if you want to breast feed while using this product. Seek consultation from your doctor if you want to use this product during pregnancy.

What do I do if I have missed a Tobradex Opth Suspension dose?

If you have missed a Tobradex dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine. You are not advised to double the dose in order to catch up.

What do I do if I have taken a Tobradex Opth Suspension overdose?

Generally overdose of Tobradex does not occur. However in case of an overdose or intake of the product by mouth it is advised to contact either an emergency ward of a hospital or a poison control centre.

Tobradex Opth Suspension interactions

Before using Tobradex, inform your doctor about all the prescription and non prescription/herbal products that you use.

Do not prescribe to a medicine or use any other eye drops or medication during treatment with Tobradex without consultation with a physician. 

Please inform your doctor, if you are taking an oral steroid medication such as prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone, others) before starting your medication with Tobradex.

Tobradex Opth Suspension side effects

Side effects from Tobradex do not generally occur.

However itching, irritation, a certain burning sensation, eyelid swelling, redness and blurred vision are some less serious side effects of Tobradex.