Why is this medication prescribed?

Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment is a medication prescribed for the treatment of certain eye infections and to prevent eye infections in certain situations. It contains two active ingredients: bacitracin and polymyxin B, which are antibiotics that work to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. It is primarily used to treat bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) and certain types of corneal ulcers.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines on how Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment should be used:

• Wash Hands: Before applying the ointment, make sure your hands are clean to prevent contamination.
• Tilt Your Head Back: To apply the ointment, tilt your head back slightly and look upward.
• Pull Down Lower Eyelid: Gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket between your lower eyelid and the eyeball.
• Apply a Thin Strip: Squeeze a small amount (about 1/2 inch) of ointment into the pocket created by pulling down your lower eyelid. Be careful not to touch the tip of the tube to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
• Close Eye: Close your eye gently to distribute the ointment across the surface of the eye. Blink a few times to help spread the ointment evenly.
• Wipe Excess: If excess ointment spills out, you can gently wipe it away with a clean tissue.
• Repeat if Necessary: If you are prescribed to use the ointment in both eyes or if instructed by your healthcare provider, repeat the process for the other eye.
• Wash Hands Again: After applying the ointment, wash your hands thoroughly to prevent any potential contamination.
• Follow Dosage Instructions: Use Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not use it more often or for a longer duration than recommended.
• Continue Treatment: Continue using the ointment for the full course of treatment prescribed, even if your symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Stopping early could allow the infection to return or become resistant to treatment.

It’s important to note that Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment is only effective against bacterial infections, and it will not work for viral or fungal eye infections. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while using this medication, or if your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days of use, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance. Additionally, only use this medication under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional.

Other uses for this medicine

Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment is primarily intended for the treatment of bacterial eye infections, but it may have some off-label or alternative uses as determined by a healthcare provider. Some potential off-label uses might include preventing eye infections after certain eye surgeries or as a preventive measure for eye injuries. However, these uses should only be determined and prescribed by a healthcare professional based on your specific medical condition.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment or any medication, it’s essential to follow certain special precautions:

• Follow Dosage Instructions: Use the ointment exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not use more or less of it, and do not use it more frequently than instructed.
• Complete the Full Course: Even if your symptoms improve, continue using the ointment for the full course of treatment as prescribed. Stopping early could lead to a recurrence of the infection or antibiotic resistance.
• Avoid Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the ointment. You should wait at least 15 minutes after applying the ointment before reinserting your lenses.
• Do Not Share: Do not share this medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Using prescription medications without a healthcare provider’s guidance can be unsafe and ineffective.
• Avoid Contamination: To prevent contamination of the ointment, avoid touching the tip of the tube to any surface, including your eye, eyelids, or hands.
• Report Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies to medications or any previous allergic reactions to ophthalmic ointments. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing), seek medical attention immediately.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the use of Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment with your healthcare provider. They will weigh the potential benefits against any potential risks to you and your baby.
• Possible Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, which may include eye irritation, redness, stinging, or burning. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, that you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Storage: Store the ointment at room temperature and away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidance on the use of Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment, including its potential uses, risks, and benefits based on your individual medical condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are typically no specific dietary instructions associated with using Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment. However, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet and stay well-hydrated to support your overall health, including your eye health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to apply a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra ointment to make up for a missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment is generally well-tolerated when used as prescribed, but like all medications, it can potentially cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects are usually mild and may include:

• Eye Irritation: This is the most common side effect. You may experience temporary burning, stinging, or itching in the eye where the ointment is applied.
• Redness: Some people may notice increased redness in the eye.
• Blurred Vision: Your vision may be temporarily blurred after applying the ointment.
• Watery Eyes: Excessive tearing or watering of the eyes can occur as a response to the ointment.
• Eye Discomfort: You might feel a general sense of discomfort or foreign body sensation in the eye.
• Swelling: In rare cases, there may be mild swelling of the eyelid or around the eye.

These side effects are typically mild and should improve as your eye adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you experience more severe side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider.

In rare cases, some individuals may have an allergic reaction to Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment. Signs of an allergic reaction may include:

• Rash or hives
• Itching
• Swelling, especially of the face, lips, or tongue
• Severe dizziness
• Difficulty breathing

If you experience any of these symptoms after using the ointment, seek immediate medical attention.

It’s important to use Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment under the supervision of a healthcare provider who can monitor your progress and address any concerns you may have about side effects. If you have a history of allergies or have had adverse reactions to medications in the past, make sure to inform your healthcare provider before using this ointment. They can provide guidance on the most appropriate treatment for your specific eye condition while considering your medical history and potential allergies.

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

Storage:

• Store Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.
• Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination.
• Store the medication out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or contact.
• Do not freeze the ointment.

Disposal:

• Dispose of any unused or expired Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment properly.
• Do not flush it down the toilet or drain unless instructed to do so by local regulations or your healthcare provider.
• Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for specific instructions on how to safely dispose of the medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (if available in your region). Symptoms of an overdose may include severe eye irritation, severe redness, swelling, or other unusual symptoms.

What other information should I know

• Follow Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Always use Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not use it longer or more frequently than recommended.
• Regular Eye Exams: Continue with regular eye check-ups as recommended by your eye doctor to monitor your eye health and ensure proper treatment.
• Prevent Contamination: To avoid contamination, do not touch the tip of the tube to your eye or any surface. Keep the tube clean.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the ointment and wait at least 15 minutes after applying before reinserting them, unless your healthcare provider instructs otherwise.
• Allergic Reactions: Be vigilant for signs of allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
• Inform Healthcare Provider: Inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies, medical conditions, or medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the use of Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment with your healthcare provider. They will assess the potential benefits and risks to you and your baby.
• Follow-up: Keep all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or changes in your condition.

Always use Mycitracin Ophthalmic Ointment as directed by your healthcare provider, and if you have any questions or concerns about its use, storage, or disposal, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification and guidance.