Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

STEROID AND ANTIBIOTIC EYE DROPS

Uses

This medication is used to treat eye infections.

How To Use

For maximum effect, this medication must be used routinely as prescribed. Continue using it for the full time prescribed. Stopping this medication too soon may not clear the infection and could result in a relapse of the infection. If the product is a suspension, shake it well before each dose. To apply eye drops, wash hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place dropper directly over eye and administer the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of the eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining away from the eye. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the dropper. If you are using another kind of eye drop, wait at least five minutes before applying other medications.

Side Effects

This medication may temporarily sting your eyes for a minute or two when you first use it. If stinging persists or worsens, inform your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: vision changes. If using eye drops with chloramphenicol, notify your doctor immediately if you experience: persistent sore throat, fever, easy bleeding or bruising. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling (including in or near the eyes), dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially about: eye surgeries, eye problems, contact lens use, any allergies. Vision may be temporarily blurred or unstable after applying eye drops. Use caution if driving or performing duties requiring clear vision. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this form of this medication passes into breast milk in large enough amounts to affect a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: other eye medicines. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

Notes

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medication may be necessary.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered; do not use if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store eye drops in a cool, dark place away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze. Discard the solution (but not the suspension) if it turns cloudy or contains particles.