TOBA 0.3%

# Benzalkonium Chloride 0.01% v/v + Tobramycin 3 mg ## SHORT DESCRIPTION Benzalkonium Chloride 0.01% v/v + Tobramycin 3 mg is a **topical ophthalmic preparation** containing tobramycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, and benzalkonium chloride, which is commonly used as a preservative in multidose eye preparations. Tobramycin helps treat susceptible **bacterial eye infections** by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. This medicine should be used only when a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed and according to medical advice. ## KEY BENEFITS * Helps treat susceptible **bacterial eye infections** * Helps reduce bacterial growth in the eye * Tobramycin provides antibacterial activity against susceptible organisms * Can help relieve infection-related eye redness, discharge and irritation * Benzalkonium chloride helps preserve the ophthalmic preparation and prevent microbial contamination ## USES / INDICATIONS Tobramycin ophthalmic preparations may be prescribed for susceptible bacterial infections such as: * **Bacterial conjunctivitis** * Bacterial blepharitis * Other superficial bacterial infections of the eye or surrounding tissues, when appropriate It is **not effective against viral or fungal eye infections**. ## HOW IT WORKS ### Tobramycin Tobramycin is an **aminoglycoside antibiotic**. It binds to bacterial 30S ribosomal subunits and interferes with bacterial protein synthesis. This inhibits bacterial growth and can result in bacterial cell death. ### Benzalkonium Chloride Benzalkonium chloride is commonly included in ophthalmic formulations as an **antimicrobial preservative**. It helps prevent contamination of the product during repeated use. ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION * Use this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor or eye specialist. * Wash your hands before applying the eye drops. * Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye, eyelids or other surfaces. * Tilt your head back and gently pull down the lower eyelid. * Place the prescribed number of drops into the affected eye. * Close your eye gently after administration. * If instructed, gently press the inner corner of the eye for a short time. * Replace the cap immediately after use. * Complete the prescribed treatment course unless your doctor tells you otherwise. ### If Using Other Eye Drops Allow an appropriate interval between different ophthalmic medicines, as advised by your healthcare professional. ### Missed Dose Use the missed dose when remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not use extra drops to compensate for a missed dose. ## SIDE EFFECTS Common side effects may include: * Temporary eye irritation * Burning or stinging after application * Eye redness * Itching * Watery eyes * Mild eyelid swelling * Temporary blurred vision ### Serious Side Effects Stop using the medicine and seek medical attention if you experience: * Severe eye pain * Significant swelling * Severe redness or irritation * Vision changes that persist * Signs of a serious allergic reaction * Swelling of the face, lips or throat * Difficulty breathing Prolonged or repeated use of topical antibiotics may promote **overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms**, including fungi. ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS * For **ophthalmic use only** if supplied as an eye preparation. * Do not use it for an eye infection without appropriate medical advice. * Tobramycin does not treat viral or fungal eye infections. * Do not wear contact lenses while experiencing an active eye infection unless specifically advised by your eye-care professional. * If the product contains benzalkonium chloride, it may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Remove contact lenses before application and follow the product instructions regarding when they may be replaced. * Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface to prevent contamination. * Do not share eye drops with another person. * Prolonged use may result in overgrowth of resistant or non-susceptible organisms. * Tell your doctor if you have previously experienced an allergy to aminoglycoside antibiotics. * Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve within the expected treatment period. * Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only after discussing it with your healthcare professional. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Significant systemic drug interactions are less common with topical ophthalmic tobramycin than with oral or injectable aminoglycosides because systemic exposure is generally low. However, tell your doctor if you are using: * Other **aminoglycoside antibiotics** * Other ophthalmic antibiotics * Ophthalmic corticosteroids * Medicines that may affect kidney function or hearing, particularly if significant systemic absorption is possible * Other eye drops or ointments Using multiple ophthalmic products may require specific spacing between applications. ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. * Store at the recommended temperature. * Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight. * Keep out of reach of children. * Do not freeze unless specifically instructed. * Do not use after the expiry date. * Do not use if the solution becomes visibly contaminated, discolored or the packaging is damaged. * Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding how long the bottle can be used after opening. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Prescription status varies by country and product formulation.** Tobramycin ophthalmic preparations are commonly supplied as **prescription medicines** and should be used under the direction of a qualified healthcare professional. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE For safe and genuine Benzalkonium Chloride + Tobramycin eye medicine: * Purchase from a licensed and reputable pharmacy. * Check the medicine name and strength. * Verify the manufacturer's details. * Check the batch number and expiry date. * Ensure the seal and packaging are intact. * Check that the dropper tip has not been damaged or contaminated. * Avoid products with suspicious or damaged packaging. * Purchase prescription medicines only from authorized sources. * Consult a pharmacist if you have concerns about product authenticity. ## FAQ ### What is Benzalkonium Chloride + Tobramycin used for? It is an ophthalmic antibiotic preparation used to treat **susceptible bacterial infections of the eye**, such as bacterial conjunctivitis. ### What is Tobramycin? Tobramycin is an **aminoglycoside antibiotic** that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis and helps eliminate susceptible bacteria. ### What is Benzalkonium Chloride used for in eye drops? Benzalkonium chloride is commonly used as an **antimicrobial preservative** in multidose ophthalmic preparations. ### Does Tobramycin treat conjunctivitis? Yes, tobramycin can treat **bacterial conjunctivitis** caused by susceptible bacteria. It does not treat viral or fungal conjunctivitis. ### Can Tobramycin treat viral eye infections? No. Tobramycin is an antibiotic and does **not treat viral infections**. ### Can Tobramycin treat fungal eye infections? No. Tobramycin is not an antifungal medicine. ### How does Tobramycin eye medicine work? Tobramycin binds to bacterial ribosomes and interferes with protein production, preventing susceptible bacteria from growing and surviving. ### How often should Tobramycin eye drops be used? The dosing frequency depends on the **severity of the infection and the specific product**. Follow the prescription provided by your doctor. ### Can I stop Tobramycin eye drops when my symptoms improve? Do not change or stop the prescribed treatment without medical advice. Completing the recommended treatment helps ensure appropriate management of the infection. ### Can Tobramycin eye drops cause blurred vision? Temporary blurred vision can occur immediately after applying eye drops. If blurred vision persists or is significant, contact your eye-care professional. ### Can Tobramycin eye drops cause burning? Mild, temporary burning or stinging can occur after administration. Severe or persistent irritation should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. ### Can I wear contact lenses while using Tobramycin eye drops? It is generally advisable to avoid contact lenses during an active eye infection. Benzalkonium chloride can also interact with soft contact lenses, so follow the specific product instructions. ### Can Tobramycin be used in children? Tobramycin ophthalmic preparations may be used in children when prescribed appropriately. The dose and suitability depend on the child's age and clinical condition. ### Can Tobramycin eye drops be used during pregnancy? Discuss use during pregnancy with your doctor. Your healthcare professional can determine whether the expected benefits justify treatment. ### Can Tobramycin be used while breastfeeding? Consult your healthcare professional before use while breastfeeding. ### Can Tobramycin eye drops be used with other eye drops? They may be used with other ophthalmic medicines when prescribed. Follow your doctor's instructions and allow the recommended interval between different eye preparations. ### What should I do if I miss a dose? Apply the missed dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not use a double dose. ### What happens if I accidentally put too many drops in my eye? A small excess amount may cause temporary irritation or blurred vision. Gently rinse the eye with clean water if necessary and contact a healthcare professional if significant or persistent symptoms occur. ### Can I share my Tobramycin eye drops? No. Eye drops should never be shared because this can spread infection and contaminate the bottle. ### How should Tobramycin eye drops be stored? Store according to the manufacturer's instructions, generally at the recommended room temperature and away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. **Benzalkonium Chloride 0.01% v/v + Tobramycin 3 mg should be used only according to the specific product instructions and advice of a qualified healthcare professional.** Tobramycin is effective against susceptible bacteria but does not treat viral or fungal eye infections. Seek prompt medical attention for severe eye pain, significant vision changes, severe swelling, worsening infection or signs of an allergic reaction. Always follow the prescribed dose and duration of treatment.