General Drug Information and Indications

Aminoglycoside ophthalmic for bacterial conjunctivitis and corneal infections; systemic use for gram-negative infections. Aminoglycoside antibiotic (tobramycin). Mechanism: irreversibly binds 30S ribosomal subunit → mRNA misreading → defective protein synthesis (bactericidal). Active against aerobic gram-negative organisms including Pseudomonas aeruginosa; superior Pseudomonas activity vs. gentamicin. Topical ophthalmic formulation; systemic use requires monitoring for nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity. Key information Aminoglycoside antibiotic. Nephrotoxic and ototoxic — monitor renal function. Once-daily dosing preferred. Ophthalmic formulation for ocular infections. Ensure adequate hydration.

How to Give this Medication

Injectable: IV (dilute; infuse over 30–60 min) or IM (deep IM). Once-daily dosing preferred. Ophthalmic: Instill into the conjunctival sac; avoid touching dropper tip to eye or periocular tissue. Otic: Clean ear canal before instillation. Gently massage base of ear after application to distribute medication. verify TM integrity. 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

Nephrotoxicity (systemic use — monitor renal function). Ototoxicity (vestibular and cochlear — prolonged systemic use). Ophthalmic: transient stinging, contact sensitivity. Pain at injection site (IM). Neuromuscular blockade (systemic use with NMB agents).

Precautions

For animals Aminoglycoside — Monitor renal function, hydration status, and urine output. Ototoxic — verify tympanic membrane integrity for otic use. Neuromuscular blockade risk. Ophthalmic: minimal systemic exposure. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Aminoglycoside — ototoxic; avoid ear and eye contact. Wear gloves when handling injectable. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian. Ophthalmic tobramycin overdose — flush eye with clean water. Systemic toxicity unlikely from ophthalmic use. Contact vet if signs persist.

Tobramycin Sol dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
TOBRAMYCIN SOL 0.3% OP0.3% OPH OINT: TOBRAMYCIN SULFATE—1Commercial
TOBRAMYCIN SOL 0.3% OP AMYCIN——1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Aminoglycosides Use in Animals (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/antibacterial-agents/aminoglycosides-use-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)