From the FDA Drug Label
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION In mild to moderate infections, instill one drop in the affected eye(s) every three hours (maximum of 6 doses per day) for a period of 7 to 10 days. The recommended dosage for polymyxin eye drops is:
- 1 drop in the affected eye(s)
- Every 3 hours
- Maximum of 6 doses per day
- For a period of 7 to 10 days 1
From the Research
The recommended dosage for polymyxin B-containing eye drops is 1 drop, 4 times daily for 7 days, as this regimen has been shown to be effective in treating bacterial conjunctivitis 2.
Key Considerations
- The dosage may vary depending on the severity of the infection, with more frequent administration for severe cases.
- It is essential to follow proper administration techniques, including washing hands thoroughly, tilting the head back, and pulling down the lower eyelid to form a pocket.
- The treatment should continue for 7-10 days or at least 48 hours after the infection resolves.
- If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 48 hours, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider.
Mechanism of Action
- Polymyxin B works by disrupting bacterial cell membranes, particularly in gram-negative bacteria.
- Most formulations include additional antibiotics to broaden coverage against gram-positive organisms.
Important Notes
- When using multiple eye medications, it is recommended to wait at least 5-10 minutes between applications.
- The patient should close their eyes gently for 1-2 minutes after administration to allow the medication to spread across the eye surface.
- Recent guidelines, such as those published in 2019, provide consensus recommendations for the optimal use of polymyxin antibiotics, including polymyxin B 3.