DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Polymyxin B; Trimethoprim

March 21, 2017

Trimethoprim Sulfate, Polymyxin B Sulfate Ophthalmic drops, solution

What is this medicine?

POLYMYXIN B and TRIMETHOPRIM (pol i MIX in B and trye METH oh prim) eye drops treat certain eye infections caused by bacteria.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • wear contact lenses

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to polymyxin B, trimethoprim, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is used in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly. Pull your lower eyelid down gently to form a pouch. Do not touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Use your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Use all of your medicine as directed even if you think your are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children and infants for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without advice of your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not get better after 5 days, or if it gets worse.

If you wear contact lenses, ask when you can use your lenses again.

A burning or stinging reaction that does not go away may mean you are allergic to this product. Stop use and call your doctor or health care professional.

To prevent the spread of infection, do not share eye products or other personal items with anyone else.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • burning, stinging, or swelling

  • change in vision or blurred vision that will not go away

  • eye pain

  • itching and redness

  • rash

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • temporary blurred vision after applying

  • temporary watering or stinging

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature 15 to 25 degrees C (59 to 77 degrees F). Protect from light. To prevent the spread of infection, it is best to throw away any unused eye drops after you finish the course of treatment. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert