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Polymyxin and bacitracin eye ointment

  • If your symptoms do not improve within a day or two, consult your doctor for further advice.

About polymyxin and bacitracin eye ointment

Type of medicineAntibacterial
Used forTreatment of bacterial eye infections, such as conjunctivitis
Also calledPolyfax® eye ointment
Available asEye ointment

Polymyxin and bacitracin eye ointment works by killing the bacteria responsible for the eye infection.

Before using polymyxin and bacitracin eye ointment

Before using this eye ointment make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you wear contact lenses.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an eye preparation or any other medicine.

How to use polymyxin and bacitracin eye ointment

  • Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Follow the instructions given to you by your doctor.

How to use eye ointments:

  1. Wash your hands well before use.
  2. Remove the cap.
  3. Pull the lower lid of your eye down to form a pocket.
  4. Hold the container upside down near to your eye but not touching it.
  5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release a thin line of ointment along the inside of your lower eye lid. Try not to touch your eye as you do this.
  6. Blink a few times to spread the ointment around the inside of your eye.
  7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been asked to use the ointment in both eyes.
  8. Replace the cap on the container. Try not to touch the applicator tip with your fingers as you do so.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Eye infections can cause the eyes to become more sensitive to sunlight. Wearing dark glasses may help prevent this.
  • Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this eye ointment.

Can polymyxin and bacitracin eye ointment cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. Some people may notice mild irritation when using this eye ointment. If this becomes troublesome or severe, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

How to store polymyxin and bacitracin eye ointment

  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  • Eye ointments only keep for 4 weeks once opened. Do not store or use this preparation after this time.

Important information about all medicines


  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are using. This includes medicines you buy including herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • If you suspect that someone has swallowed some of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2011DocID: 3647DocRef: dils3346Last Reviewed: 17 Jan 2011Version: 25
For the planned review period see the Data Creation and Quality Control Process.
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