Tobrex eye drops are a well-known medication commonly used to treat various eye infections. Can Tobrex eye drops be used safely for infants?
1. Can Tobrex drops be used for infants?
Tobrex drops contain the main ingredient Tobramycin 0.3% (3mg/ml). Tobramycin belongs to the group of aminoglycoside antibiotics with strong activity, broad antibacterial spectrum, and is fast acting. The drug acts on bacterial cells by inhibiting the synthesis and assembly of polypeptide chains in the ribosome.
Tobrex is indicated in the treatment of infections outside the eyeball and the ocular adnexa caused by bacteria sensitive to tobramycin. When using Tobrex eye drops, you should monitor the response of bacteria to this topical antibiotic therapy.
Clinical studies have demonstrated that the antibiotic tobramycin is safe and effective for use in children. However, the safety and effectiveness of Tobrex drops in infants under 2 months of age have not yet been established. Therefore, Tobrex should not be used in this age group unless prescribed by a specialist.
Additionally, Tobrex drops are contraindicated for individuals who are hypersensitive to tobramycin or any of its excipients.
2. Dosage and how to use Tobrex drops
The dosage of Tobrex drops must comply with the doctor's indication, the recommended dose for adults and children over 2 months of age is as follows:
- For mild to moderate disease, put 1 - 2 drops of medicine into the affected eye, every 4 hours.
- For severe infections, instill 2 drops of medicine into the affected eye every hour until the symtoms improves, then gradually reduce the dose before stopping the drug.
Tobrex drops can be used in combination with Tobrex eye ointment.
How to use Tobrex drops:
- For eye drops only - not for injection into the eye
- After opening the bottle, if the security ring is loose, discard it before using the medicine.
- To prevent contamination of the dropper tip and the medicine, ensure the dropper does not touch your eyelids, the surrounding area, or any other surface. Always tighten the bottle cap after use.
- It is recommended to apply gentle pressure to the lacrimal duct or to close your eyes gently after instilling Tobrex. This helps limit systemic absorption of the drug and reduces the risk of systemic side effects.
- Use ointment eye drops last.
- Remember to discard the bottle 28 days after first opening.
Some notes when using Tobrex:
- Some patients may be sensitive to topical Tobrex. The severity of hypersensitivity reactions can vary among individuals, ranging from localized effects to systemic reactions. These may include erythema, itching, urticaria, anaphylactic shock, anaphylactoid reactions, skin rashes or bullous reactions.
- As with other antibiotics, prolonged use of Tobrex eye drops may lead to the overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If a superinfection occurs, it is important to seek appropriate treatment promptly.
- Wearing contact lenses while treating eye infections is not recommended. Tobrex eye drops contain benzalkonium chloride, which can cause eye irritation and discoloration of soft contact lenses. Therefore, contact with soft contact lenses should be avoided. If your doctor has advised you to wear contact lenses, you should remove them before applying Tobrex and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
- In the case of an overdose, rinse your eyes with clean, warm water to remove the medication.
3. Side effects of Tobrex eye drops
You need to go to a medical facility immediately if you have signs of an allergic reaction including hives, dyspnea and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
In addition, you should also see a doctor immediately if you have the following symptoms:
- Severe burning, stinging, or irritation of the eyes after using Tobrex
- Eye swelling, red eye, dry eye or extreme discomfort eyes.
Common side effects of Tobrex may include:
- Itchy or red eyes
- A burning, stinging sensation or irritation of the eyes.
- Itchy eyelids or swollen eyelids
- Blurred vision
- The eyes may be more sensitive to light.
Tobrex drops are a well-known medication used to treat certain bacterial infections of the eyes. However, scientists have not established the safety and effectiveness of Tobrex in children under 2 months of age. Therefore, Tobrex should not be used for infants unless prescribed by a specialist. To ensure safety and reduce the risk of infection, users must strictly follow the instructions provided by their doctor or pharmacist.
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