Tobramycin is an antibiotic to treat bacterial infections in various parts of the body, such as bones, joints, urinary tract and digestive tract. The only available tobramycin in Indonesia is tobramycin eye drops and ointment which are used to treat eye infections.
Tobramycin works by inhibiting growth and killing bacteria that cause infection. This drug can be used to treat mild to severe eye infections.
Tobramycin trademarks: Bralifex, Bralifex Plus, Tobro, Tobroson, Tobrex
What is Tobramycin
| class | Aminoglycoside antibiotics |
| Category | Prescription drug |
| Benefit | Overcome bacterial infections |
| Used by | Adults and children |
| Tobramycin eye drops and ointment for pregnant and lactating women |
Category C : Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there have been no controlled studies in pregnant women.
Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Tobramycin in the form of eye drops or ointment is not yet known whether it can be absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, consult the use of this drug with your doctor. |
| Drug form | Eye drops and ointment |
Precautions Before Using Tobramycin
- Tell your doctor about any history of allergies you have. Tobramycin should not be given to patients who are allergic to this drug or to other aminoglycoside class antibiotics.
- Tell your doctor if you have any other eye disease, such as a fungal or viral infection, such as eye herpes , before using tobramycin eye drops or ointment.
- Do not drive a vehicle or operate heavy machinery immediately after using tobramycin in the form of eye drops or ointment, because this drug can cause blurred vision.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
- Immediately see a doctor if you experience a drug allergic reaction , overdose, or serious side effects after using tobramycin.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Tobramycin
The following is the dose of tobramycin to treat eye infections based on the dosage form of the drug and the patient's age:
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Tobramycin 0.3% eye drops
Adults and children over 1 year: 1–2 drops every 4 hours. For severe infections, the dose can be increased to 2 drops every 1 hour until conditions improve.
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Tobramycin ointment 0.3%
Adults and children over 1 year: Apply 1 cm of ointment to the affected eye, 2–3 times a day. For severe infections, apply every 3-4 hours.
How to use Tobramycin correctly
Always read the rules of use and follow the doctor's recommendations before using tobramycin. When you are going to use eye drops and ointments, don't forget to wash your hands and clean the eye area first.
To use tobramycin eye drops , tilt your head back and look up. Pull the lower eyelid slightly to form a pouch. Drop the drug under the eye and slowly close the eye for 1-2 minutes.
Place your finger on the corner of your eye on the side near your nose to prevent the medicine from flowing out. Do not blink or wipe your eyes immediately after using the drug. If you need to use other eye drops or ointment, give it a 5-10 minute break.
To use eye ointment , look up, then pull back the lower eyelid. Press the medicine tube until the ointment comes out about 1 cm and place it into the lower eyelid. After that, blink your eyes slowly and close your eyes for about 1-2 minutes.
Make sure the tip of the tube does not touch the eye, eyelid or other surface to avoid contamination.
If you forget to use tobramycin, use it immediately if the break with the next usage schedule is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.
Use tobramycin until the time set by the doctor, even if the symptoms seem to have disappeared. This aims to maximize the effect of the drug and avoid bacteria becoming resistant to the drug. Do not increase or decrease your dose without consulting your doctor first.
Store tobramycin at room temperature, in a dry place, and avoid direct sunlight. Keep medicine out of reach of children.
Tobramycin Interactions with Other Drugs
It is not yet known what interaction effects can occur if tobramycin in the form of eye drops or ointment is used together with other drugs. To be safe, always tell your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking before using this medication.
Side Effects and Dangers of Tobramycin
Tobramycin eye drops or ointment can cause side effects in the form of:
- Watery eyes
- Red or itchy eyes
- Eyes sore, sore, or irritated
- Itchy or swollen eyelids
- Blurred vision
- The eyes are more sensitive to sunlight
Check with your doctor if these side effects don't go away or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if you experience a drug allergic reaction after using tobramycin eye drops or ointment.