Tobastar Eye Drop

TOBASTAR EYE DROP by MANKIND PHARMA LTD

Name: Tobastar Eye Drop (Common), Tobastar Eye/Ear Drops (Brand)

Composition: Tobastar Eye Drop contains Tobramycin 0.3% w/v as the active ingredient. Phenylmercuric Nitrate (0.001%) may also be included as an antimicrobial preservative. Tobramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic.

Uses: This medication is primarily used to treat external bacterial infections of the eye and eyelids. It is effective against conditions such as:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
• Keratitis (corneal inflammation)
• Corneal ulcers
• Styes and chalazia
• Dacryocystitis (tear duct inflammation) It can also be used to prevent infections following eye injuries or surgical procedures. Tobastar Eye/Ear Drops can also treat bacterial ear infections. It is not effective against viral, fungal, or parasitic infections.

Dosage and Administration: Use Tobastar Eye Drop strictly as prescribed by your doctor.

• For Eye Drops: Wash hands thoroughly before and after use. Tilt the head back, pull down the lower eyelid, and instill the prescribed number of drops into the eye. Gently close the eyes and press the corner near the nose for about 1 minute to prevent drainage.
• Typical Guidance: Dosage can vary based on the severity of the condition. For mild to moderate infections, 1-2 drops, 4 times a day, is common. For severe infections, 2 drops every hour may be prescribed.
• Wait at least 5 minutes before applying any other eye medications. Do not touch the dropper tip to the eye or any surface to avoid contamination. Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve.

Side Effects: Common side effects include:

• Eye discomfort, irritation, or stinging sensation
• Itching and swelling of the eyelids
• Eye redness
• Increased tearing or watery eyes
• Blurred vision (temporary) Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions. Consult your doctor if side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions:

• Allergy: Do not use if allergic to tobramycin, phenylmercuric nitrate, or other aminoglycoside antibiotics.
• Contact Lenses: Avoid wearing contact lenses during an active eye infection and while using these drops.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: Temporary blurred vision may occur; avoid these activities until vision is clear.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor before use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Long-term Use: Prolonged use may lead to corneal damage or increase the risk of drug-resistant bacteria.
• Other Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have vision problems, severe eye pain, glaucoma, eye injury/surgery, hearing problems, or a perforated eardrum.

Storage:

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight.
• Keep at a temperature below 25°C or below 30°C.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed.
• Discard any unused medicine after 4 weeks of opening the bottle.

Here are some frequently asked questions about TOBASTAR EYE DROP by MANKIND PHARMA LTD, along with their answers:

What is TOBASTAR EYE DROP used for?

TOBASTAR EYE DROP is primarily used to treat external bacterial eye infections. These include conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), keratitis (corneal inflammation), corneal ulcers, styes, chalazia (lumps on the eyelid), and dacryocystitis (tear duct inflammation). It can also be used to prevent eye infections after an injury or surgery, and to prevent ophthalmia neonatorum in newborns. This medicine is not effective against viral, fungal, or parasitic eye infections.

How does TOBASTAR EYE DROP work?

TOBASTAR EYE DROP contains Tobramycin, which is an aminoglycoside antibiotic. Tobramycin works by binding irreversibly to the ribosomal subunits within bacterial cells, disrupting their protein synthesis. This action alters cell membrane permeability and ultimately leads to the death of the bacteria causing the infection. The formulation also includes Phenylmercuric Nitrate, which acts as an antimicrobial preservative.

What is the usual dosage for TOBASTAR EYE DROP?

The dosage of TOBASTAR EYE DROP should be strictly followed as prescribed by your doctor. It is for external ophthalmic use only. Typically, for mild to moderate infections, your doctor might advise 1-2 drops, four times a day. For more severe infections, you may be prescribed 2 drops every hour initially. Always check the label for specific directions and do not alter the dosage without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of TOBASTAR EYE DROP?

Some common side effects you might experience with TOBASTAR EYE DROP include a stinging or burning sensation in the eye, itching and swelling of the eyelids, eye redness and irritation, increased tearing, and blurred vision. Most of these side effects are temporary and resolve on their own. If any side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor.

Is TOBASTAR EYE DROP safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Caution is advised when using TOBASTAR EYE DROP if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. While the quantity absorbed from topical eye application is usually small, it should only be used if recommended by your doctor, who will assess the potential benefits against any possible risks to the baby. Some sources suggest it is probably unsafe or unsafe during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing baby.

Can TOBASTAR EYE DROP be taken with other medications?

TOBASTAR EYE DROP may interact with certain medications. Using it concurrently with other aminoglycoside antibiotics (like gentamicin or neomycin) can increase the risk of side effects. Medications with ototoxic potential, such as aspirin and certain diuretics like furosemide, might worsen hearing problems if used with Tobramycin. Penicillins, imipenem, and ceftizoxime may decrease its effectiveness, while cisplatin, colistin, cyclosporine, and fludarabine might increase its side effects. If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 5-10 minutes between applications to avoid dilution. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking.

What precautions should be taken while using TOBASTAR EYE DROP?

To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning or worsening. Be aware that temporary blurred vision may occur after application, so avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision clears. Inform your doctor about any known allergies to aminoglycosides or Phenylmercuric Nitrate, or if you have a history of hearing problems or neuromuscular disorders. This medicine is specifically for bacterial infections and should not be used for viral, fungal, or parasitic eye infections. Long-term use of Tobastar Eye Drop may cause damage to the cornea.

What happens if a dose of TOBASTAR EYE DROP is missed?

If you miss a dose of TOBASTAR EYE DROP, instill it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should TOBASTAR EYE DROP be stored?

TOBASTAR EYE DROP should be stored at a temperature below 30°C (or below 25°C, as per some sources) in a cool and dry place, protected from light. Keep the bottle out of the reach of children and pets. Once opened, it is generally recommended to use the eye drops within 4 weeks.