Tobradex Oph Oint: Tobramycin Sulfate/dexamethasone
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Tobramycin/dexamethasone ophthalmic for ocular infections with associated inflammation.
Tobramycin/dexamethasone ophthalmic combination. Tobramycin: aminoglycoside — 30S ribosomal binding → protein synthesis inhibition (bactericidal). Dexamethasone: fluorinated corticosteroid — reduces ocular prostaglandin synthesis and vascular permeability. Combination for infected ocular conditions with significant inflammation.
Key information
Potent corticosteroid. Immunosuppressive — increased infection risk. May induce laminitis in horses — use lowest effective dose. May precipitate parturition in mares. Prohibited in competition — know withdrawal times. Adrenal suppression with prolonged use.
How to Give this Medication
Ophthalmic solution or ointment: Instill into the conjunctival sac; avoid touching dropper tip to eye or periocular tissue. Shake well before each use. (suspension) before each use. Instill 1–2 drops or ribbon of ointment q4–6h. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.
Side Effects
Tobramycin: contact sensitization (neomycin-free but still possible). Dexamethasone: steroid-induced IOP increase, secondary infection, corneal healing delay, HPA suppression with prolonged use. Ototoxicity if TM ruptured.
Precautions
For animals
Verify tympanic membrane integrity. Dexamethasone: do not use with corneal ulceration or herpetic keratitis. Monitor IOP with prolonged ophthalmic steroid use.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Antibiotic/steroid ophthalmic — tobramycin: aminoglycoside ototoxicity risk. Dexamethasone: minimize skin contact. Avoid human eye contact. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Ophthalmic corticosteroid/antibiotic — prolonged excessive use may cause corticosteroid side effects.
Tobradex Oph Oint: Tobramycin Sulfate/dexamethasone dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOBRADEX OPH OINT: TOBRAMYCIN SULFATE/DEXAMETHASONE | — | Ointment | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)