What is this medication for?
Tobramycin belongs to the class of medications called antibiotics. It is used for the treatment of certain eye infections that are caused by bacteria. It works by helping to kill the bacteria that are causing the infection.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
Drops: The usual adult dose is 1 or 2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 4 hours. For severe infections, the dose is 2 drops into the affected eye(s) every hour until improvement is noticed, followed by a reduction in dose as prescribed by the doctor. Prevent contamination of the dropper by avoiding contact with the eye, skin, or other surfaces.
Ointment: The usual dose is a 1.25 cm ribbon applied into the conjunctival sac (the inner surface of the eyelid) of the affected eye(s) 2 to 3 times daily. For severe infections, the dose is a 1.25 cm ribbon applied into the conjunctival sac every 3 to 4 hours until improvement is noticed, followed by a reduction in dose as prescribed by the doctor. Prevent contamination of the tube tip by avoiding contact with the eye, skin, or other surfaces.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Tobramycin eye preparations should not be used by anyone who is allergic to tobramycin or any ingredients of the medication.
