Viral, Fungal, and Certain Other Eye Infections
Do not use Tobradex Eye Ointment if you have certain viral, fungal, or mycobacterial eye infections unless your eye specialist specifically directs you to.
This includes conditions such as:
- Herpes simplex keratitis
- Varicella-related eye disease
- Vaccinia
- Fungal infections of the eye
- Mycobacterial eye infections
The dexamethasone in Tobradex can suppress the immune response and may worsen these infections.
Increased Eye Pressure and Glaucoma
Tobradex contains a corticosteroid that can increase pressure inside the eye, especially when it is used for a longer period.
If eye pressure remains high, it can lead to glaucoma, optic nerve damage, and changes in vision.
If treatment continues for about 10 days or longer, your healthcare provider may monitor your eye pressure.
Cataracts
Long-term corticosteroid use in the eye may increase the risk of developing posterior subcapsular cataracts.
This type of cataract can gradually affect vision.
Tell your healthcare provider if you notice worsening blurred vision or other persistent vision changes.
Delayed Healing
The steroid component of Tobradex can slow healing in some eye conditions.
This may be especially important after eye surgery or in people with thinning of the cornea or sclera.
Your eye specialist may examine your eye closely if Tobradex is used for an extended period.
Risk of Secondary Eye Infections
Using corticosteroid eye medications for a long time can weaken the eye’s local immune response.
This may increase the risk of a secondary bacterial, viral, or fungal infection.
Steroids can also mask symptoms of an existing infection, making it harder to recognize.
Contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms become worse or do not improve as expected.
Allergic Reactions
Some people may develop an allergic reaction to tobramycin, dexamethasone, or another ingredient in Tobradex.
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:
- Hives
- Severe itching
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- A severe rash
Sensitivity reactions to aminoglycoside antibiotics such as tobramycin can occur.
Contact Lenses
Do not wear contact lenses while using Tobradex Eye Ointment.
Contact lenses can interfere with treatment and may increase irritation or infection risk.
Wait until your healthcare provider tells you it is safe to start wearing them again.
Blurred Vision
Tobradex Eye Ointment can temporarily blur your vision after application.
Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform activities that require clear vision until your eyesight returns to normal.
Persistent or worsening vision changes should be reported to your healthcare provider.
Drug Interactions
Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, eye drops, eye ointments, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products.
If you use more than one eye medication, your healthcare provider or pharmacist may advise you to separate them by a certain amount of time.
Pregnancy
Tobradex should be used during pregnancy only when your healthcare provider determines that the expected benefit outweighs the potential risk.
Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before starting treatment.
Breastfeeding
Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding.
It is not known whether enough dexamethasone or tobramycin is absorbed from ophthalmic use to pass into breast milk in clinically significant amounts.
Your healthcare provider will help determine whether Tobradex is appropriate while breastfeeding.
Do Not Use Longer Than Prescribed
Use Tobradex only for the length of time recommended by your healthcare provider.
Long-term or unnecessary use can increase the risk of glaucoma, cataracts, delayed healing, and secondary eye infections.
Do not continue treatment on your own if your symptoms are not improving.
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