What is triple antibiotic + dexamethasone: ophthalmic?
Triple antibiotic + dexamethasone: ophthalmic is a combination of topical antibiotic (neomycin + polymyxin B + bacitracin/gramicidin) with a topical steroid (dexamethasone) used to treat bacterial eye infections and inflammation of the eye in cats, dogs, and other animals.
Its use may be off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine depending on the species and conditions being treated. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine.
“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
How do I give my pet triple antibiotic + dexamethasone: ophthalmic?
- Triple antibiotic + dexamethasone: ophthalmic comes in ointment or liquid eye drop suspension form. It may be specially compounded.
- All forms 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.
This medication should start to take effect within 1 to 2 hours, though outward effects may not be seen immediately.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects from triple antibiotic + dexamethasone: ophthalmic?
Triple antibiotic + dexamethasone: ophthalmic may cause the following side effects:
- Irritation, swelling, mild pain, or reddening in or around the eyes
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving triple antibiotic + dexamethasone: ophthalmic and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, 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?
DO NOT USE triple antibiotic + dexamethasone: ophthalmic in:
- Pets that are allergic to any component or to similar drugs
- Pets with corneal ulceration or fungal infection
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets with diabetes mellitus
- Pets with heart disease or hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Pets with chronic kidney disease
- Cats
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
There are no documented drug interactions for the ophthalmic form of 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?
- Fluorescein eye stain will be used to ensure no corneal ulceration before starting this medication.
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store triple antibiotic + dexamethasone: ophthalmic?
- Store the medication in its original container at room temperature (68°F–77°F or 20°C–25°C).
- Protect from light, moisture, and freezing.
- Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.
- 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. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.
