Why is this medication prescribed?

Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic is a combination medication used for the treatment of bacterial eye infections. It is commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) and other bacterial infections of the eyes.

Polymyxin B is an antibiotic that works by disrupting the cell membrane of bacteria, causing them to burst and die. Trimethoprim is another antibiotic that inhibits bacterial growth by blocking the synthesis of certain essential components within the bacterial cells.

The combination of these two antibiotics provides a broad-spectrum coverage against various bacteria that may cause eye infections.

How should this medicine be used?

Usage Instructions:

• Dosage: Follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider. This may involve applying the medication to the affected eye(s) multiple times per day.
• Wash Hands: Before applying the medication, make sure your hands are clean.
• Administration: Tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket, and apply the prescribed number of drops into the pocket.
• Avoid Touching: Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to prevent contamination.
• Close Eyes: After applying the medication, close your eyes gently and keep them closed for a short time to allow the medication to be absorbed.
• Wipe Excess: If there is any excess medication around the eye, you can wipe it away with a clean tissue.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Continue Treatment: Use the medication for the full course prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and finish the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to ensure that the infection is completely eradicated. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, or if your symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

Other uses for this medicine

Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic is primarily indicated for the treatment of bacterial eye infections, particularly bacterial conjunctivitis. It is important to note that this medication is specifically designed for ophthalmic (eye) use, and its use for other purposes is not recommended. It is not intended to treat viral or fungal eye infections.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to any components of Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic or if you have had any allergic reactions to other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The potential risks and benefits of using the medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before applying the eye drops. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them to avoid potential interactions.
• Medical History: Provide your healthcare provider with a detailed medical history, especially if you have any pre-existing eye conditions or other health issues.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, that you are currently taking. This is important to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Resistant Organisms: Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of nonsusceptible organisms, including fungi. If superinfection occurs, discontinue use and institute alternative therapy.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your progress during the treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
• Do Not Share: Do not share your medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Each person’s condition may require a different treatment approach.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any unusual or severe side effects promptly. If you have concerns or questions about the medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are typically no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support overall well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects are usually mild and temporary. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider. Here are some potential side effects associated with Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic:

• Eye Irritation or Stinging: Some individuals may experience temporary irritation or a stinging sensation upon application.
• Blurred Vision: Your vision may be temporarily blurred after applying the eye drops.
• Redness or Itching: You may notice redness or itching in the treated eye.
• Tearing or Watery Eyes: Increased tearing or watery eyes can occur in some cases.
• Dry Eyes: On the flip side, dry eyes may be experienced by some individuals.
• Swelling of the Eyelids: Swelling of the eyelids may occur in rare cases.
• Eye Pain: Some individuals may experience mild eye pain.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing may occur. Seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.

It’s important to note that serious side effects are uncommon with Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic. If you are concerned about any side effects or have pre-existing conditions that may be affected by this medication, consult with your healthcare provider.

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, stop using the medication and contact your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking to rule out potential drug interactions that could contribute to side effects.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage:
  • Store Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
  • Keep the medication out of the reach of children.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired medication properly.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so.
  • Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidelines on proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or accidental ingestion of Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe eye irritation or other unusual symptoms.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Always use Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic as directed by your healthcare provider. Follow the prescribed dosage and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
• Regular Eye Exams: If you have ongoing eye issues, regular eye examinations are important. Discuss the frequency of eye exams with your healthcare provider.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Keep your healthcare provider and eye care specialist informed about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
• Avoid Contamination: Avoid contaminating the dropper tip. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use.
• Follow-up: Attend any follow-up appointments scheduled by your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

If you have any specific questions or concerns about Polymyxin B and Trimethoprim Ophthalmic, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.