Polytrim
Generic name: polymyxin B and trimethoprim ophthalmic [ POL-ee-MIX-in-B-and-try-METH-oh-prim-off-THAL-mik ]
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-infectives
What is Polytrim?
Polytrim (for use in the eyes) is a combination medicine used to treat eye infections caused by bacteria.
Polytrim may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Polytrim side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Polytrim may cause serious side effects. Stop using Polytrim and call your doctor at once if you have:
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eye pain, swelling, redness, or severe discomfort;
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crusting or drainage (may be signs of infection);
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swelling or redness of your eyelids; or
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new or worsening symptoms.
Common side effects of Polytrim may include:
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mild burning, stinging, or itching of your eyes.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Polytrim if you are allergic to polymyxin B or trimethoprim.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
This medicine should not be given to a child younger than 2 months old.
How should I use Polytrim?
This medicine is usually applied once every 3 hours for 7 to 10 days. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
To apply the eye drops:
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Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.
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Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting. Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.
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Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed. If you use more than one drop, wait about 5 minutes between drops.
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Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.
Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Related/similar drugs
azithromycin ophthalmic, ciprofloxacin ophthalmic, levofloxacin ophthalmic, erythromycin ophthalmic, gentamicin ophthalmic, polymyxin b/trimethoprim ophthalmic, Neo-Polycin, AK-Poly-Bac
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Polytrim?
Do not use Polytrim while wearing contact lenses. Polytrim may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using this medicine before putting in your contact lenses.
Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.
What other drugs will affect Polytrim?
Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
More about Polytrim (polymyxin b/trimethoprim ophthalmic)
- Compare alternatives
- Reviews (2)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: ophthalmic anti-infectives
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Further information
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 circumstances.
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