Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This medication is prescribed for the management of inflammatory conditions affecting the eyes and for the treatment or prevention of bacterial eye infections. The active ingredients include neomycin and polymyxin, which are antibiotics functioning to inhibit bacterial growth. The third ingredient is dexamethasone, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid that effectively reduces swelling.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions when applying this medication to your eye(s), typically 3 or 4 times a day.
During the course of using this medicine, refrain from wearing contact lenses. If you normally use contact lenses, sterilize them in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and consult with your doctor before resuming their use.
Adhere strictly to the prescribed frequency and duration of use—do not exceed the recommended usage or continue beyond 10 days unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
For optimal results, use this medication consistently at the same times each day. To facilitate remembering, establish a routine. Even if your symptoms improve within a few days, continue using the medication for the entire prescribed duration. Prematurely discontinuing the treatment may lead to a recurrence of the infection.
To administer the eye drops, the following steps should be followed:
- Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
- Do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface, and ensure that it is kept clean.
- Tilt the head back and pull down the lower lid of the eye using the index finger to form a pocket.
- Hold the dropper as close to the eye as possible without making contact, and brace the remaining fingers against the face.
- Squeeze the dropper gently to instill a single drop in the pocket created by the lower eyelid while looking upwards.
- Remove the index finger from the lower eyelid and keep the eye closed for 2-3 minutes while tilting the head down.
- Apply gentle pressure to the tear duct using a finger.
- Use a tissue to wipe off any excess liquid from the face.
- Wash hands to remove any residual medication.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- blurred vision (after using eye ointment)
- eye irritation
- headache
- itchy eyes
- sensitivity to light
- watering eyes
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- eye pain
- new or worsening eye infection
- skin rash, itching, redness, or swelling in or around the eyes
- vision changes
Caution
- Prior to using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have allergies to neomycin, polymyxin, dexamethasone, aminoglycoside antibiotics, corticosteroids, or any other substances. Inactive ingredients in the product may potentially trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have other eye problems, such as glaucoma.
- After applying this medication, your vision may experience temporary blurring. Avoid activities requiring clear vision, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do so safely.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- The passage of this drug into breast milk is uncertain. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding to determine the appropriate course of action.
Form and Strength
Maxitrol Eye Suspension is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Maxitrol Eye Suspension ophthalmic drops:
- 1 mg / 3.5 mg / 6000 u
FAQ
Is Maxitrol Eye Suspension a steroid or antibiotic?
Because of the three active ingredients in Maxitrol Eye Suspension, it is classified as both a steroid and an antibiotic.
Can I keep my leftover Maxitrol Eye Suspension for any eye infections that I might have in the future?
No. If you have any leftover Maxitrol at the end of your treatment for your current eye infection, throw the medication away. Reusing the medication for any eye infections you might have later can raise the risk of reinfection if your eye drops accidentally got contaminated with bacteria.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/maxitrol/what-is#faqs
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/maxitrol#adverseeffects
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/neomycin-polymyxin-b-and-dexamethasone-ophthalmic-route/side-effects/drg-20406312?
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1011-6072/maxitrol-ophthalmic-eye/neomycin-polymyxin-dexamethasone-ointment-ophthalmic/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/maxitrol-ophthalmic.html
