Tobramycin is a prescription medication used to treat bacterial eye infections. It is commonly administered as a medicated ophthalmic solution (eye drops) or medicated ointment.

Tobramycin is an antibiotic, which means that it is ineffective against viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. This medication is prescribed to treat existing infections, and should not be used as a preventative measure against bacterial infections. Doing so can actually make you more resistant to antibiotic treatment.

Tobramycin is an antibiotic that is commonly administered as a medicated eye drop. This medication is used for the treatment of bacterial eye infections.

Common forms of bacterial eye infections include:

Pink eye (conjunctivitis): Pink eye may be caused by a bacterial or viral infection or an allergic response. Newborns may experience pink eye caused by an incompletely opened tear duct. Pink eye symptoms include red and watery eyes, itchiness, excessive tearing, and discharge from the eye.

Keratitis: This is an infection of the cornea, caused by a virus, fungus, bacteria, or parasite. Keratitis can cause red eyes, eye pain, excessive tearing, blurred vision, or difficulty opening the eye.

Cellulitis: Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the eyelid tissue. The infection is rarely painful but can cause redness and swelling. Cellulitis is more common in children under the age of 2.

Blepharitis: Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelid commonly caused by infection or clogged pores. This inflammation leads to swelling in the eyelid, watery eyes, burning in the eyes, sensitivity to light, and other symptoms.

Tobramycin is classified as an antibiotic medication. These drugs are indicated for use as a treatment for bacterial infections in various parts of the body. They work by killing harmful bacteria and preventing their growth. This dual-action treats existing infections while preventing them from spreading or worsening.

Because tobramycin is an antibiotic, it is ineffective against viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. In addition, this drug is only used to treat existing infections. Using tobramycin as a preventative measure against infections can actually make your body resistant to the drug and increase your likelihood of developing one of the conditions listed above.

Tobramycin has been shown to cause some side effects. If these adverse reactions do not go away within a few days, talk to your health care provider.

Common side effects reported while taking tobramycin include:

• Itching, stinging, and burning of the eye
  
• Increased tear production
  
• Eyelid swelling
  
• Blurred vision
  

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms such as swelling that does not go away or eye irritation. Because you may experience blurred vision after applying tobramycin, do not operate cars or other forms of machinery immediately after using this medication.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, and any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with tobramycin. Tobramycin can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects. In addition, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Tobramycin is commonly administered as an ophthalmic ointment or eye drops. For adults and children over the age of 12, apply ointment to the affected eyelid every 8-12 hours. If you have been prescribed medicated eye drops, apply one drop to the affected eye every 4 hours. This dosage may be increased as needed.

Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of tobramycin without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Tobramycin is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not tobramycin is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for tobramycin to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.