Tobradex eye ointment (tobramycin/dexamethasone) is a combination eye medication used to treat and relieve signs and symptoms of bacterial eye infections.

Use Tobradex eye ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. This medication contains 0.3% of tobramycin and 0.1% of dexamethasone. If you need help understanding these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them. 

The typical dose is to put one-half inch of ointment in the affected eye up to 3 or 4 times a day. To use the Tobradex eye ointment,

First, tilt your head back. Then, pull down your lower eyelid with one hand, and hold the tube of ointment with the other. Place a small amount (about half an inch) of ointment in the space between your eyelid and eyeball. Look down before closing your eye for 1 to 2 minutes to help the medication reach all the necessary parts of the eye.

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

• If you are allergic to tobramycin, 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 tobramycin 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.

The common side effect of Tobradex eye ointment include:

Temporary blurred vision, eye redness, eye discomfort, and eyelid itching/swelling may occur. 

Use of this medication for prolonged/repeated periods may result in a new fungal eye infection and may increase your risk for other eye problems (such as glaucoma and cataracts). Do not use this medication for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice the following: new or worsening eye symptoms (such as discharge, swelling), vision changes, or eye pain.

It is a partial list of possible side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice other effects not listed above.

Is it safe to drive while on Tobradex eye ointment?

After you apply Tobradex eye ointment, your vision may become temporarily blurred or unstable. Only drive, use machinery or do any activity that requires clear vision once you can do it safely.

Can you use Tobradex eye ointment for other infections?

Tobradex eye ointment treats/prevents only bacterial eye infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections. 

What side effects can Tobradex eye ointment cause?

• Eye tearing
• Itching or burning of the eye
• Swelling of the eye
• Temporary blurred vision may occur.