POLYMYXIN B; TRIMETHOPRIM (pol i MIX in B; trye METH oh prim) treats eye infections caused by bacteria. It belongs to a group of medications called antibiotics. It will not treat infections caused by viruses.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Wear contact lenses
An unusual or allergic reaction to polymyxin B, trimethoprim, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper or tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surfaces. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Do not use your medication more often than directed. Finish the full course of medication prescribed by your care team even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advice of your care team.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 2 months for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
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 medication?
Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without advice of your care team.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
New or worsening eye pain, redness, irritation, or discharge
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Eye irritation or itching
Increased tears after use
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Check with your care team 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 care team.
To prevent the spread of infection, do not share eye products or other personal items with anyone else.
Where should I keep my medication?
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 medication after the expiration date.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
