What is Bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic?
Bacitracin and polymyxin B are antibacterials that kill bacteria.Combination medicine Bacitracin and polymyxin B (for the eyelids) are used to treat bacterial infections of the eyelids or eyes.This medication guide does not list all possible uses for polymyxin B and Bacitracin ophthalmic.
Side effects of Bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
Bacitracin and polymyxin B may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Severe itching or swelling in your eyelids
- Eye pain, redness, or watering
- Vision changes and increased sensitivity to lights
- White patches on the eyes
- If you notice crusting or drainage in your eyes,
- There are new signs of
Some of the common side effects associated with bacitracin or polymyxin B eye drops include:
- Mild eye rashes or itching
- Eyelids that puff up
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Prednisone, Ciprofloxacin for Ophthalmic Use, Diclofenac Ophthalmic, The Ophthalmic Form of Azithromycin, Dexamethasone Ophthalmic, Triamcinolone, and Levofloxacin for Ophthalmic Use
Warnings
This medicine should not be used if your eye has a viral infection or a fungus. The ophthalmic Bacitracin/Polymyxin B only treats infections caused by bacteria.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to polymyxin B or bacitracin, then do not use the bacitracin ophthalmic.If you have a fungal or viral infection in your eyes, do not use the bacitracin-polymyxin-B ophthalmic. This medication only treats infections caused by bacteria.If you have not seen your doctor, do not use polymyxin-B ophthalmic or bacitracin ophthalmic for any eye infection.Inform your doctor immediately of any allergies or medical conditions you are currently living with.This medicine is not known to harm an unborn child. Inform your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.It is unknown if bacitracin or polymyxin-B can pass into breast milk and if they could harm a nursing infant. Inform your doctor if breastfeeding is taking place.Anyone younger than 18 is not allowed to use Bacitracin or Polymyxin B Ophthalmic.
How to take Bacitracin and Polymyxin B Ophthalmic?
Do not alter the instructions on your prescription. Use this medication only as directed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it for a longer period of time.Before using eye medications, wash your hands.How to apply the ointment
- Create a pocket by tilting your head slightly back and pulling down your lower eyelid. The tip of the tube should be pointing towards this pocket. Focus your attention upwards and away from the tip.
- Squeeze a small amount of ointment onto the lower eyelid without touching the tube tip to your eye. Blink gently before closing your eye for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Wipe off any excess ointment with a tissue.
- You may experience blurred vision after opening your eyes for a few seconds. Avoid driving and doing other activities that require you to have clear vision.
Avoid touching the tube tip or placing it directly on your eye. The tip of the tube can cause serious vision problems if it is contaminated.The medicine can be applied up to 10 times per day. Do not forget to follow your doctor's instructions.Do not stop taking the medicine before it is completely cleared. You may experience symptoms before the infection has completely cleared. You may increase your chances of a second infection resistant to antibiotics if you skip doses.If your symptoms remain unchanged or worsen, visit a physician immediately.Store away from moisture or heat at room temperature. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat sources. When not in use, keep the tube tightly sealed.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as you realize, take your missed dose immediately; otherwise if your next scheduled dosage is approaching quickly, skip it altogether and go right on with life!You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses of bacitracin or polymyxin B eye drops are not dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical attention. You can also call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Blurred vision can be caused by bacitracin or polymyxin B. You should be careful when driving or doing anything else that requires clear vision.You should only use eye drops prescribed by your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs that you may take orally or even inject are unlikely to have any effect on the bacitracin or polymyxin B applied to your eyes. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about any medicines you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
