Neomycin; Polymyxin B; Dexamethasone Eye Ointment

What is this medication?

NEOMYCIN; POLYMYXIN B; DEXAMETHASONE (nee oh MYE sin; pol i MIX in B; dex a METH a sone) is a combination of a steroid and antibiotics. It helps to reduce swelling, redness, and itching of the eye. It also is used to treat eye infections.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): AK-Trol, Maxitrol, NeoPolyDex, Ocu-Trol, Poly-Dex

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• any other active infection
• glaucoma
• wear contact lenses
• an unusual or allergic reaction to neomycin, polymyxin B, dexamethasone, corticosteroids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the tube to your eye, fingertips, or other surface. Squeeze the end of the ointment tube to apply a thin layer of the ointment to the inside of the eyelid. Close the eye gently to spread the ointment. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course of medicine prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional. Do not use for longer than instructed by your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better, or if it gets worse.

Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are exposed to anyone with measles or chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor or health care professional when you can use your lenses again.

A burning or stinging reaction that does not go away may mean you are allergic to this product. Stop using and call your doctor or health care professional.

This medicine can make certain eye conditions worse. Only use it for conditions for which your doctor or health care professional has prescribed.

To prevent the spread of infection, do not share eye products, towels, and washcloths with anyone else.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• changes in vision
• eye pain
• severe burning, stinging or swelling of the eyelids
• watery eyes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• eye irritation, itching
• mild burning, redness or stinging in the eye
• temporary watering or blurring of vision

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

See product for storage instructions. Each product may have different instructions. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.