- Urgent Care
- Pink Eye
Tobradex
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 doctor online.*
Book an appointment
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*
*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.
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 or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
Pink eye
Your physician might recommend Tobdradex for treating a pink eye infection, if it happened due to a bacterial infection. In some 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. The FDA has not given any statement regarding treating pink eye infection with Tobradex.
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 a minimum of 14 days and 24 days maximum.
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 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?
Tobradex costs an average of $95 for 5 ml of 0.3%/0.1% eye drop a local pharmacies.
Is Tobradex a steroid?
Yes, it is a steroid with a combination of an anti-inflammatory 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.
3 simple steps to request your Tobradex prescription today
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.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Tobradex prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Tobradex prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Tobradex prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Mayo Clinic. "Tobramycin and Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic Route) - Description and Brand Names."Accessed October 2, 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tobramycin-and-dexamethasone-ophthalmic-route/description/drg-20062827.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "Tobramycin and Dexamethasone Ophthalmic Solution USP." Accessed October 2, 2023, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/050818lbl.pdf.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.