bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic Health Article

Generic name(s):

bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic

Brand name(s):

bacitracin-polymyxin B ophthalmic, AK-Poly-Bac, Ocumycin, Polysporin Ophthalmic, Polytracin Ophthalmic

What is the most important information I should know about bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic?

Contact your doctor if your symptoms begin to get worse or if you do not see any improvement in the condition after a few days.

Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye.

What is bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic?

Bacitracin and polymyxin B are antibiotics. They are used to treat bacterial infections.

The ophthalmic form of bacitracin and polymyxin B is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes.

Bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic?

Do not use bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic if you have a viral or fungal infection in the eye. It is used to treat infections caused by bacteria only. It is not known whether bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic passes into breast milk. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic?

Use bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before and after using the medication.

To apply the ointment:

• Hold the tube in your hand for a few minutes to warm it up so that the ointment comes out easily. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down gently on your lower eyelid. Apply a thin film of the ointment into your lower eyelid. Close your eye and roll your eyeball around in all directions for 1 to 2 minutes. If you are applying another eye medication, allow at least 10 minutes before applying the other medication.

Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye. Store bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube properly capped.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to be harmful. If you suspect an overdose or if the ointment has been ingested, contact an emergency room or poison control center for advice.

What should I avoid while using bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic?

Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including the eyes or hands. The tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in the eye. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Bacitracin and polymyxin B ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.

Use caution with contact lenses. Generally, contact lenses should not be worn if there is an infection in the eye. If your doctor permits wearing contact lenses while using the medication, wait at least 15 minutes after applying the medication before inserting contact lenses.

Avoid the use of other eye medications or products except under the direction of a doctor.