Tobradex eye ointment is used in the eye to treat bacterial infections. It consists of a Tobramycin antibiotic that kills bacteria, and the Dexamethasone steroid is used to treat the swelling associated with bacterial eye infections.

Tobradex eye ointment is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use Tobradex eye ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. To use:

First, wash your hands. Tilt the head back, and pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to make a space. Squeeze a thin strip of ointment into this space. Let go of the eyelid, gently close the eyes, and keep them closed for 1 or 2 minutes to allow the medicine to come into contact with the infection.

Do not touch the applicator tip on any surface to keep the medicine germ-free. Keep the tube tightly closed.

Before using Tobradex eye ointment, tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you are allergic to it, other antibiotics or other drugs.
• Prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other eye medications and vitamins,
• If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. 
• You should know that your vision may be blurred during treatment with Tobradex eye ointment.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes even if your vision is blurred. Do not drive a car or operate machinery if you cannot see clearly.
• You wear soft contact lenses. You should not wear contact lenses if you have an eye infection.

Tobradex eye ointment may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• eye tearing
• itching, stinging or burning of the eye
• swelling of the eye
• temporary blurred vision.

What happens if you miss a dose of Tobradex eye ointment?

Apply the missed Tobradex eye ointment dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if you overdose on Tobradex eye ointment?

An overdose of Tobradex eye ointment is unlikely to occur. Contact an emergency room if you suspect an overdose or the medication has been ingested.

How should you be aware while using Tobradex eye ointment?

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor if you should wear them during treatment with Tobradex eye ointment. After applying the medication, wait at least 15 minutes before inserting contact lenses unless otherwise directed by your doctor.