Generic name: oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic [ox-ee-te-tra-SYE-kleen-and-paw-lee-MIX-in]
Brand names: Terak, Terramycin with Polymyxin B Sulfate
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-infectives
What is oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic?
Oxytetracycline and polymyxin B are antibiotics. They are used to treat bacterial infections.
The ophthalmic form of oxytetracycline and polymyxin B is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes.
Oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic?
Contact your doctor if your symptoms begin to get worse or if you do not see any improvement in your condition after a few days.
Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.
Who should not use oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic?
Do not use oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic if you have a viral or fungal infection in your eye. It is used to treat infections caused by bacteria only.
It is not known whether oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether oxytetracycline 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 oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic?
Use oxytetracycline 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 your eye ointment.
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 your next application.
Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.
Store oxytetracycline 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 your 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 occur. If you do suspect an overdose, wash the eye with water and call an emergency room or poison control center near you. If the ointment has been ingested, drink plenty of fluid and call an emergency center for advice.
What should I avoid while using oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic?
Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.
Use caution with contact lenses. Wear them only if your doctor approves. After applying this medication, wait at least 15 minutes before inserting contact lenses.
Avoid other eye medications unless your doctor approves.
Oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic side effects
Serious side effects are not expected with this medication.
Commonly, some burning, stinging, irritation, itching, redness, blurred vision, eyelid itching, eyelid swelling or crusting, tearing, or sensitivity to light may occur. Continue to use oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic and talk to your doctor about any side effects you experience.
Oxytetracycline / polymyxin b ophthalmic side effects (more detail)
What other drugs will affect oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic?
Avoid other eye medications unless they are approved by your doctor.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
More about oxytetracycline / polymyxin b ophthalmic
- Compare alternatives
- Side effects
- Drug class: ophthalmic anti-infectives
Patient resources
- Oxytetracycline and Polymyxin B patient information
Professional resources
Other brands
Terramycin with Polymyxin B Sulfate
Further information
- Your pharmacist has additional information about oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic written for health professionals that you may read.
What does my medication look like?
Oxytetracycline and polymyxin B ophthalmic is available with a prescription under the brand names Terak Ointment and Terramycin with Polymyxin B Ointment. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circ*mstances.
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Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 2.03. Revision Date: 2/13/04 4:04:48 PM.
