From the Guidelines
Tobramycin/dexamethasone eye suspension is used to treat blepharitis, particularly when both infection and inflammation are present, as it reduces signs and symptoms of the condition. This combination medication contains tobramycin, an antibiotic that kills bacteria, and dexamethasone, a steroid that reduces inflammation, redness, and swelling. According to the most recent study 1, topical antibiotics, including tobramycin/dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension, have been shown to provide some symptomatic relief and decrease bacteria from the eyelid margin in cases of anterior blepharitis. The clinical efficacy of topical tobramycin/dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension has been evaluated in uncontrolled (off-label) manufacturer-sponsored studies, and it appears to reduce some of the signs and symptoms of blepharitis 1.
Some key points to consider when using this medication include:
- Washing hands before application
- Avoiding touching the dropper tip to any surface, including the eye
- Completing the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve quickly
- Being aware of the potential risks of prolonged steroid use in the eye, such as increased risk of glaucoma, cataracts, or secondary infections. It's essential to follow the prescribed dosing and treatment duration, as well as any specific instructions provided by the doctor, to ensure effective treatment and minimize potential side effects.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Uses of Tobramycin/Dexamethasone Eye Suspension
- Tobramycin/dexamethasone eye suspension is used to treat moderate to severe acute blepharitis/blepharoconjunctivitis, as shown in a study comparing its efficacy to azithromycin ophthalmic solution 1% 2.
- The combination of tobramycin and dexamethasone provides faster inflammation relief than azithromycin for moderate to severe blepharitis/blepharoconjunctivitis 2.
- Tobramycin/dexamethasone eye suspension can be used to treat acute infectious conjunctivitis, as it combines a broad-spectrum antibiotic with a corticosteroid to address multiple etiologies and accompanying inflammation 3.
- The use of topical corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone, in combination with anti-infectives like tobramycin, may be a promising treatment option for acute conjunctivitis, although further evidence is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety 3.
- Tobramycin is also recommended as a treatment for acute bacterial conjunctivitis, particularly in cases where fluoroquinolones are not suitable due to their broad spectrum of activity 4.
- Topical antibiotics like tobramycin have been shown to be effective in treating acute bacterial conjunctivitis, with a systematic review indicating that antibiotic therapy is associated with significantly improved rates of early clinical remission and microbiological remission 5.