Bacitracin/Polymyxin B Ophthalmic Ointment (BACITRACIN/POLYMYXIN OINTMENT - OPHTHALMIC)

Instructions

If you use contact lenses, do not wear them on the days when using this ointment.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Do not let the tip of the container touch your eye. Do not touch the tip with your hands or let it touch other surfaces. This can cause a serious eye infection.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines.

If using eye drops and eye ointments, always use the drops at least 5 minutes before the ointment. The drops will not be able to get into the eye properly if used at the same time or after the ointment.

Use this medicine at the same time each day.

Discard any remaining medicine.

Do not use any other eye medicine without your doctor's knowledge.

Do not take the medicine more than eight times during 24 hours.

Brand Name(s): Polycin

Generic Name: Bacitracin/Polymixin B

Cautions

Keep using this medicine for the full number of days that it is prescribed. Do not stop the medicine even if you start to feel better.

Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions before starting this medicine, especially other eye conditions.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

This medicine may cause blurry vision.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not begin to improve after 3 days on this medicine.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some people have experienced serious eye infections or other eye problems while using this medicine. Contact your doctor right away if you experience eye pain, redness, severe headache, or any changes to your vision.

While you are on this medicine, it is very important to follow your doctor's instructions for any medical appointments or tests.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • blurry vision
  • burning or stinging
  • discomfort in the eyes
  • irritation of the eyes

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • eye pain or swelling
  • signs of new or worsening eye infection, such as thick drainage or crusting

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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