What is neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone ophthalmic?
Neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone ophthalmic, also known as neopolydex (brand name Maxitrol®), is a combination antimicrobial (neomycin and polymyxin B) and steroid (dexamethasone) anti-inflammatory medication used to treat certain types of bacteria (gram-positive and gram-negative). It is used to treat eye infections and eye inflammation.
It is used “off label” or “extra label” to treat eye infections in dogs and cats. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully.
How do I give my pet neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone ophthalmic?
Neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone ophthalmic comes in a liquid eye drop form and an ointment form.
- Drops and ointments are given topically, directly into the eye.
- Wash your hands before giving your pet this medication.
- Do not allow the dropper tip to touch your animal’s eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
- If you are administering more than one eye medication to your pet, wait 5 to 10 minutes between each medication. Give eye drops before eye ointments.
- Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects from neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone ophthalmic ointment?
Neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone ophthalmic may cause the following side effects:
- irritation or swelling
- itching
- reddening
The following reactions are rare; if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:
- an allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, or puffiness and swelling around the face
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
AVOID this medication in pets allergic to any component and in pets with eye ulcers.
Use this medication with CAUTION in:
- pets with diabetes
- pets with glaucoma
- cats (rare allergic reactions reported)
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
No known drug interactions have been reported for this medication.
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Your veterinarian may schedule a follow-up visit after the course of medication is complete to ensure the infection has been cleared and/or do additional testing to ensure this is the right medication for the type of infection present. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
- In cats, monitor closely for signs of allergic reaction each time this medication is administered.
How do I store neomycin/polymyxin B/dexamethasone ophthalmic ointment?
- Store the medication in its original container, protected from light, at room temperature.
- Keep the cap tightly closed.
- Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
