GENERIC NAME: NEOMYCIN/POLYMYXIN/DEXAMETHASONE - OPHTHALMIC DROPS (nee-oh-MY-sin/paw-lee-MIX-in/dex-uh-METH-uh-sown, off-THAL-mick)

BRAND NAME(S): Maxitrol, Poly-Dex

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat eye infections.

HOW TO USE: For best effects, this medication must be used as directed. Continue using it for the full time prescribed. Stopping this medication too soon may not clear the infection and could possibly result in a reinfection. Apply eye drops to the affected eye(s) as follows: Wash hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the dropper or let it touch your eye. Shake the eye drops before using. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place dropper directly over eye and administer the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of the eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining away from the eye. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the dropper. If you are using another kind of eye drop, wait at least five minutes before applying other medications.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may temporarily sting or burn your eyes for a minute or two when applied. If this continues or becomes bothersome, inform your doctor. Vision may be temporarily blurred or unstable for a period after applying eye drops. Use caution if driving or performing duties requiring clear vision. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: skin rash, eye itching/burning, eye redness/pain, eye swelling, vision problems. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: other eye problems, any allergies (especially to antibiotics or sulfites). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.