Tobastar-f Eye Drop

TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP by MANKIND PHARMA LTD is an ophthalmic solution indicated for the treatment of bacterial eye infections and associated inflammation.

Name

• Brand Name: TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP
• Manufacturer: Mankind Pharma Ltd.

Composition

• Active Ingredients: Tobramycin (0.3% w/v) and Fluorometholone (0.1% w/v).
  • Tobramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, stopping the growth and spread of susceptible bacteria.
  • Fluorometholone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation by blocking the production of chemical messengers (prostaglandins) that cause redness, swelling, and itching.

Uses

TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP is prescribed for various eye conditions where bacterial infection is present or suspected, including:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Blepharitis
• Corneal ulcer
• Eye inflammation
• Allergic conjunctivitis
• Post-operative inflammation
• Relief from symptoms such as redness, swelling, discharge, itching, and pain

Dosage and Administration

• Typically, instill one or two drops into the affected eye(s) every four to six hours, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
• The duration of treatment usually ranges from 7 to 10 days, but may vary depending on the severity and nature of the infection or inflammation.
• Wash hands thoroughly before use. Tilt the head back, gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket, and administer the drops without touching the dropper tip to the eye or any surface.
• Remove contact lenses before application and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. Do not discontinue use abruptly.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Temporary eye discomfort
• Burning or stinging sensations upon application
• Eye irritation
• Itching
• Redness of the eye
• Blurred vision (temporary) Consult a doctor if side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions

• Not recommended for children under 1 year of age (some sources say under two years of age).
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor before use.
• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery immediately after use due to potential temporary blurred vision.
• Prolonged use of topical corticosteroids may lead to increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma) or cataract formation.
• Contraindicated in viral eye infections (including herpes simplex), mycobacterial, or fungal eye infections.
• If using other eye drops, maintain at least a 5 to 10-minute gap between applications.
• Use within 4 weeks after opening the bottle.

Storage

• Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
• Keep in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
• Dispose of any unused medicine safely.

What is TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP used for?

TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP is primarily used to treat bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and keratitis. It also helps in reducing associated inflammation, swelling, redness, itching, and irritation in the eyes, and can be used for post-operative inflammation.

How does TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP work?

This medicine contains two active ingredients: Tobramycin and Fluorometholone. Tobramycin is an antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, which stops the growth and ultimately leads to the death of bacteria. Fluorometholone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers, called prostaglandins, that cause redness, swelling, and itching in the eye.

What is the usual dosage for TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP?

The dosage should be exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, it is used 2-3 times a day for at least a week, but the specific duration and frequency depend on the severity of the condition and your response to the medication. Administer the drops into the affected eye(s) by gently pulling down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket.

What are the possible side effects of TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP?

Common side effects include temporary eye irritation, stinging, burning sensation, redness, itching, blurred vision, and swelling of the eyelids. These effects are usually temporary and tend to resolve on their own. If any side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your healthcare provider. Prolonged use of the corticosteroid component (Fluorometholone) may lead to increased intraocular pressure or cataract formation.

Is TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: Information regarding the use of TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP during pregnancy is limited. It is recommended to consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, and it should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Breastfeeding: Caution is advised during breastfeeding as a component of the eye drops may pass into breast milk and could potentially harm the nursing infant. Consult your doctor to ensure safety for both you and your baby.

Can TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP be taken with other medications?

It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions. While TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP is applied externally and is less likely to have significant interactions, topical painkillers like diclofenac may delay the eye's healing process. Using it concurrently with other corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone) might increase the risk of side effects like elevated intraocular pressure, and with other aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin), it could potentially increase the risk of antibiotic resistance. If you are using other eye drops, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between applications.

What precautions should be taken while using TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP?

Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the eye drops. Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before instilling 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 ensure the infection is fully cleared. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience temporary blurred vision after using the drops. This medicine is not recommended for children under 1 or 2 years of age and should not be used for viral, mycobacterial, or fungal eye infections. Do not use the eye drops if the solution changes color, turns cloudy, or contains particles, and discard the bottle one month (or four weeks) after opening.

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

If you miss a dose, instill the drops 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 instill a double dose to make up for the missed one.

How should TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP be stored?

Store TOBASTAR-F EYE DROP in its original container, tightly closed, at a steady room temperature, ideally below 30°C. Keep it in a dry place away from direct sunlight and do not freeze it. Ensure the medicine is always out of reach of children and pets. Any unused medicine should be disposed of safely after the recommended period of use (one month after opening).