Urgent Care Pink Eye

Tobradex (tobramycin / dexamethasone) prescription available online

If you are suffering from bacterial eye infections, Tobradex can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Tobradex from a board-certified primary care doctor online.*

Treats and prevents bacterial infections in the eyes Available as an ointment and suspension form (eye drops) Save up to 38% on Tobradex with RX discount card*

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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of bacterial eye infections. Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

About Tobradex

Tobradex medication treats or prevents eye infections. This drug combines two medications; tobramycin and dexamethasone.

Tobramycin is part of a class of antibacterial known as aminoglycosides. It works by inhibiting bacterial growth. Dexamethasone relates to the corticosteroid class of medications. It functions by minimizing swelling. This drug only treats and prevents bacterial infections in the eyes. It is ineffective against other forms of eye infections (e.g. viral or fungal).

Tobradex is available only by prescription. Tobradex belongs to a class of drugs knowns as ophthalmic steroids-antibiotics. It has a generic name known as tobramycin and dexamethasone. It comes under brand names like Tobradex ST, but the most common name is Tobradex.

Tobradex is available as an ointment and suspension form (eye drops).

It's always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage you are prescribed.

If you are prescribed Tobradex, be sure to complete the full course of tobramycin and dexamethasone unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop.

The Tobradex may not fully treat your bacterial eye infection if you don't complete your prescription.

Tobradex uses

The FDA has approved Tobradex to treat arterial eye infections and inflammations. Any bacterial contamination that causes eye swelling and pain can be treated with Tobradex.

It may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It's also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.

Bacterial pink eye

Your physician might recommend Tobdradex for treating a pink eye infection if it is caused by bacteria. In most cases, the cause of pink eye is not a bacterial, but a viral infection. In the case of a viral pink eye infection, Tobradex will not work. Viral pink eye spreads easily among children and adults, frequently appearing in schools and daycares. Symptoms include eye redness, itchiness, discomfort, mild eyelid swelling, and a clear-yellow watery discharge. In contrast, bacterial pink eye is more severe, often causing fever, significant pain, and a thick pus discharge from the eye.

Always consult your physician before using any drug to avoid any potential side effects.

Tobradex side effects

The side effects associated with taking Tobradex are typically mild. Most Tobradex side effects are associated with eye discomfort, like itching.

Tobradex has some common side effects. They may include:

Eye redness
Burning in eyes
Irritation
Stinging
Eye discomfort
Swelling a bit
Sensitivity to light
Allergic reaction

Less common side effects can include:

Blurred vision
Eye pain
Seeing more halos around light
Severe headache
Confusion
Short breath
Weakness in legs, arms

You should call your doctor immediately if you notice any of these adverse effects or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms.

Tobradex may be given to children of 2 years or older.

How to take Tobradex

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Tobradex prescription.

Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

Tobradex can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription.

When prescribed eye drops, first wash your hands, then use a finger to apply gentle pressure and pull down the lower eyelid and use the dropper to apply the eye medication into the eye. Make sure that the dropper tip does not touch the eye.

Dose for adults:

For eye drops, apply one drop into each eye every four to six hours. The amount could be increased to 2 drops every 4 hours on the first two days. The dosage should be maintained for at least 14 days. Follow the instructions provided by your online doctor.

Dose for children:

The same amount of Tobradex can be given to children of 2 years of age or above. However, always consult a physician before giving Tobradex to children.

What to avoid while taking Tobradex

Tobradex has various possible drug interactions. Don't change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs. Tobramycin and dexamethasone may interact with some of the following substances:

NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) eye drops
Other corticosteroid-containing eye drops

Other drug interactions include:

Albuterol
Aspirin
Doxycycline
Ibuprofen
Levothyroxine
Losartan
Melatonin
Metformin
Tramadol

Note that this is not a complete list of potential drug interactions. Tell your doctor about any other drugs that you are taking before using any tobramycin ophthalmic solution.

You should talk to your healthcare provider before taking Tobradex with alcohol.

Medication alternatives to Tobradex

If your doctor prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another drug class. Here is some common doctor-recommended alternative based on your health issue:

Eye infections

Maxitrol

Erythromycin eye ointment

Tobradex prescription FAQs

How much does Tobradex cost?

Brand-name Tobradex costs, without insurance, an average of $95 for 5 ml of 0.3%/0.1% eye drops at local pharmacies. The generic form under the name tobramycin-dexamethasone is much cheaper, especially with discount coupons, and may cost as little as $25 at select pharmacies.

Is Tobradex a steroid?

Yes, it contains a steroid with a combination of an antibiotic drug that causes the reduction of swelling in the eyes due to any bacterial infection.

Is Tobradex safe for the eyes?

Yes, it is safe for the eyes. FDA has approved Tobradex for eye treatment only if it is due to a bacterial infection. However, long term use may cause fungal infection in the eyes.

Can I wear contacts with Tobradex?

It is recommended to not wear contact lenses when using Tobradex. The chemicals in Tobradex may build up on the soft contact lenses. If contact lenes have to be worn, only put on your contact lenses 15 minutes after applying Tobradex.

How can I refill my Tobradex prescription?

Tobradex is only available by prescription, so you will need to see a board-certified doctor to get a refill on your prescription. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.

Who should not take Tobradex?

Pregnant women, mothers who are breast feeding, children below 2 years and patients with known allergies to tobramycin and dexamethasone should consult a physician before use. Patients taking any other corticosteroid medicines or NSAIDs should also talk to their healthcare professionals first.

What happens if I miss a dose of Tobradex?

It is usually ok miss a dose, but consult your doctor for medical advice regarding the missed dose. Stick to your regular dosing schedule and do not double dose.

How many times a day can I use Tobradex?

It is recommended to take 3-4 drops daily following the instructions of your doctor or pharmacist.

Step 1

Book a Tobradex prescription request appointment.

Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your Tobradex prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3

Pick up your Tobradex prescription, if provided.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

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