Tobramycin Eye Drops
Tobramycin eye drops are used to treat bacterial eye infections such as bacterial conjunctivitis and eye stye.
Mechanism of Action
Tobramycin is a member of aminoglycoside family that is used to bacterial infections, particularly Gram-negative bacteria. It is a bactericidal antibiotic that acts by inhibiting the production of bacterial proteins.
It works by binding to specific organs of the bacteria that are called bacterial 30S and 50S ribosome. It is preferred over gentamicin for the treatment of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa because of its bactericidal activity.
Ingredients of Tobramycin Eye Drops
Each mL of Tobramycin Eye Drops contain:
Active Ingredients:
Tobramycin 3 mg (0.3%). Tobradex eye drop is tobramycin plus dexamethazone.
Inactive Ingredients:
Boric Acid, Sodium Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Tyloxapol and Purified Water. Sodium Hydroxide and Sulfuric Acid may be added to adjust pH (7.0 - 8.0).
Preservative:
Benzalkonium Chloride 0.1 mg (0.01%).
It comes in the form of eye drops or eye ointment. Eye ointment is used before bed time because during the day, it might causes blurred vision. Tobramycin Ophthalmic Solution 0.3% is supplied in a 5 mL plastic bottle.
Storage
Store at 2°-30°C (36°-86°F). Avoid excessive heat, light and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Keep away from children and pets.
Clinical Pharmacology
It works against gram positive micro-organism such as Staphylococcus and Steptococcus. The main activity of this medication is against Gram negative microorganism such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, H. aegyptius and Moraxella lacunata. Another advantage of this medication that it can work against bacteria that are resistance to the action of gentamicin.
Pregnancy
Studies in pregnant women have demonstrated that there are risks to the fetus.
Breastfeeding
There are no enough data and studies to support the safety of this medication during breastfeeding. The potential benefits of taking this medication against the risk of not taking it should be determined.
Pediatric
Studies have shown that side effects in children are not different than those in adults.
Geriatric
There are no enough data on older people and it is not known whether they work exactly the same way they do in adults or if they cause different side effects.
Side Effects of Tobramycin Eye Drops
1- Tearing
2- Eye redness
3- Burning and foreign body sensation
4- Eyelid itching/swelling may occur
5- Severe allergic reaction may occur such as skin rash, generalized itching, and swelling of the face, tong and throat which can cause difficulties in breathing. These symptoms and signs required immediate medical treatment.
These are not complete list of the side effects of the drug, if you notice any of these side effects or other unusual symptoms you should contact your eye doctors.
Precaution
Before using this Tobramycin Eye Drops you should tell your eye doctor:
1- You are allergic to it or to other member of aminoglycosides such as gentamicin or allergic to preservatives (e.g., benzalkonium chloride).
2- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
3- If you are in other medications. Some medications can have interaction with it.
4- Use this medication only when it is prescribed by your eye doctor and do not use it for longer than prescribed.
5- If you notice any unusual symptoms or signs, you should contact your eye doctor immediately.