BACITRACIN/POLYMYXIN OINTMENT - OPHTHALMIC

BACITRACIN/POLYMYXIN OINTMENT - OPHTHALMIC

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (BAS-i-TRAY-sin/POL-ee-MIX-in)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Polysporin

GENERIC NAME(S): bacitracin/polymyxin B sulfate

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat eye infections. This product contains bacitracin and polymyxin, antibiotics that work by stopping the growth of bacteria. This medication treats only bacterial eye infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections (e.g., infections caused by viruses, fungi, mycobacteria). Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.


How to use BACITRACIN/POLYMYXIN OINTMENT - OPHTHALMIC

HOW TO USE: This medication is applied to the eye(s) as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer's directions, and check with your doctor before you begin using them again. To apply the eye ointment, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the tube tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place a 1/2 inch (1.5 centimeters) strip of ointment into the pouch by squeezing the tube gently. Close the eye and roll the eyeball in all directions to spread the medication. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed. Wipe the tip of the ointment tube with a clean tissue to remove extra medication before recapping it. Apply as often as directed by your doctor. If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), apply the eye drops first and wait at least 5 minutes before applying this eye ointment. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. If you are using another type of eye ointment, wait at least 10 minutes after using this medication before applying it. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Continue to use this medication for the full time prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too soon may allow bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection. Inform your doctor right away if your condition does not improve in a few days or if you develop new or worsening eye symptoms (e.g., discharge, swelling, redness, pain).

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Stinging/burning of the eyes for 1 to 2 minutes or temporary blurred vision may occur when this medication is applied. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat/eye/eyelid), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to bacitracin or polymyxin; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: other eye problems. After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.