GENERIC NAME: NEOMYCIN/POLYMYXIN B/GRAMICIDIN D - OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION (nee-oh-MY-sin/paw-lee-MIX-in/gram-ih-SYE-din)
BRAND NAME(S): Neosporin
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat eye infections. This product contains 3 antibiotics which work together to stop the growth of bacteria. This medication only treats 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.
HOW TO USE: 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. 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 using them. Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and insert one drop, usually every 4 hours, or as directed by your doctor. 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. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed, and if your dose is for more than 1 drop. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use. If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least 5-10 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day. Continue using it for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a relapse of the infection. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may temporarily sting or burn your eyes for a minute or two when applied. Eye discomfort, redness, or temporary blurred vision may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because 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 or repeated periods may result in a new fungal eye infection. Do not use it for longer than prescribed. Contact your doctor if you notice new or worsening symptoms. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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