Tobramycin / dexamethasone
Anti-inflammatory · Rx
Trade namesTobraDex, TobraDex ST
Drug classAntibiotic + corticosteroid (combination)
StrengthTobramycin 0.3% + dexamethasone 0.1% (ST 0.05%)
AvailabilityRx
Mechanism of actionAminoglycoside antibacterial cover plus potent corticosteroid anti-inflammatory.
Indication / reason for useSteroid-responsive inflammation where a bacterial infection or risk exists, blepharoconjunctivitis, marginal keratitis, post-op, chalazion adjunct.
Usual adult dosing1-2 drops q4-6h (up to q2h initially); ointment TID-QID. Shake suspension.
PreservativeBAK 0.01%
Contact lensesDo not wear lenses during treatment.
Common / important adverse effectsIOP elevation, cataract with prolonged use, aminoglycoside surface toxicity, masking/worsening of undiagnosed HSV or fungal infection.
Contraindications & cautionsEpithelial herpes simplex keratitis, fungal/mycobacterial infection, most viral corneal disease.
Pregnancy / lactationLimited data.
Practice notesReassess by 1-2 weeks; not for undiagnosed red eye or presumed viral conjunctivitis.
Chair-side reference only. Dosing, contraindications and pregnancy guidance here are not exhaustive. Confirm against the current prescribing information and the patient’s full history before prescribing or advising.