Tobradex (Tobramycin/Dexamethasone)

Tobradex is a prescription eye medication combining tobramycin (an antibiotic) and dexamethasone (a steroid). It treats or prevents bacterial eye infections while reducing inflammation. It's commonly used after eye surgery and for certain inflammatory conditions.

How It Works

Tobramycin (antibiotic):

• Kills or inhibits bacterial growth
• Effective against many common eye bacteria
• Aminoglycoside antibiotic

Dexamethasone (steroid):

• Reduces inflammation
• Decreases redness, swelling, and discomfort
• Potent corticosteroid

Common Uses

• Post-operative care after eye surgery (cataract surgery, etc.)
• Bacterial eye infections with inflammation
• Blepharitis with infection
• Corneal injuries with infection risk
• Inflammatory conditions where infection is present or a concern

How to Use

Eye Drops

• Dosing: Typically 1-2 drops every 4-6 hours (or as prescribed)
• Shake well before use
• Technique: Standard drop instillation
• Duration: Usually 7-14 days (follow prescription)

Ointment

• Dosing: Small ribbon into lower eyelid 3-4 times daily
• At bedtime: Often used for overnight coverage
• Technique: Pull down lower lid, apply thin strip

General Instructions

• Wash hands before and after use
• Don't touch dropper tip to eye
• Complete the full course as prescribed
• Don't use longer than prescribed

What to Expect

• Improvement in redness and discomfort within days
• Continue full course even if feeling better
• Vision may blur temporarily (especially ointment)

Side Effects

Common

• Temporary stinging or burning
• Blurred vision (especially ointment)
• Eye irritation
• Taste changes

From Steroid Component (With Prolonged Use)

• Increased eye pressure
• Cataract formation
• Delayed wound healing
• Secondary infection risk

From Antibiotic Component

• Allergic reaction
• Eye irritation
• Rarely: sensitization to tobramycin

Precautions

Contraindications

• Viral eye infections (herpes simplex, vaccinia, varicella)
• Fungal eye infections
• Mycobacterial infections
• Allergy to any component

Duration of Use

• Usually 1-2 weeks
• Longer use requires monitoring
• Prolonged steroid use can cause:
  • Glaucoma
  • Cataracts
  • Secondary infections
• Follow your doctor's instructions exactly

Available Forms

Form	Brand	Use
Eye drops	Tobradex	Daytime use
Ointment	Tobradex	Nighttime/all-day
Suspension	Tobradex ST	Less frequent dosing

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I use Tobradex?

Only as long as prescribed—usually 1-2 weeks. Don't continue beyond the prescribed duration. The steroid component can cause serious problems with prolonged use.

Can I use Tobradex for pink eye?

Only if prescribed by your doctor. Many cases of "pink eye" are viral, and the steroid in Tobradex can make viral infections worse. Don't self-treat with leftover Tobradex.

Why does my vision blur after using the ointment?

Ointment temporarily coats the eye surface, causing blur. This is normal and clears as the ointment absorbs. This is why ointment is often used at bedtime.

Can I wear contact lenses while using Tobradex?

Generally no. The preservative can be absorbed by contacts. Ask your doctor when you can resume lens wear.

What if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose when you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Don't double up.

Is generic as good as brand-name Tobradex?

Generic tobramycin/dexamethasone contains the same active ingredients. Most patients do well with generics. Discuss with your doctor if you have concerns.