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tobramycin and dexamethasone, Tobradex

GENERIC NAME: tobramycin and dexamethasone

BRAND NAME: Tobradex

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Tobradex is a combination of the antibiotic, tobramycin, plus the anti- inflammatory corticosteroid, dexamethasone. The combination is used to treat conjunctivitis (inflammation of the inner side of the eyelids) when bacterial infection is thought to be the cause of the inflammation. Tobradex was approved by the FDA in 1988.

PRESCRIPTION: yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: no

PREPARATIONS: Ophthalmic solution or ointment containing 0.3% tobramycin and 0.1% dexamethasone.

STORAGE: Tobradex should be kept at room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F) and protected for direct light.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Tobradex is used for the treatment of conjunctivitis believed to be due to bacterial infection.

DOSING: The hands should be washed before each use of Tobradex or any eye medication. The head is tilted back, and the lower eye lid is pulled down with the index finger to form a pouch. The tip of the dropper should not touch the eye or eyelid. The bottle of Tobradex should be squeezed slightly to allow the prescribed number of drops (generally 1 or 2 drops) into the pouch. If the ointment is being used, a small strip (about 1cm or 1/2 inch) of ointment should be squeezed into the pouch. The eye should then be closed gently for 1 to 2 minutes without blinking.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: No drug interactions have been described with Tobradex eye drops or ointment.

PREGNANCY: Although no human studies have assessed the effects of Tobradex on the fetus, animal studies have shown adverse fetal effects. Physicians should use it only if its benefits are deemed to outweigh the potential risks.

NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known if Tobradex is excreted into breast milk.

SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequently reported side effects noted with Tobradex are itching and swelling of the eye lids and redness of the conjunctivae. These effects occur in fewer than 1 of every 25 persons who uses Tobradex.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

Last Editorial Review: 7/23/1998

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