What is Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 13, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Polytrim

Generic Names:

  • Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim

Uses:

  • Treats eye infections.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antibiotic Combination

Forms:

  • Liquid, Drop

How it’s taken:

  • Into the eye

What is Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim used for?

Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim comes in liquid eye drop form and is used to treat eye infections caused by bacteria. Polymyxin B and trimethoprim are antibiotics that fight bacteria in the body. Common side effects may include mild burning, stinging, or itching of your eyes. Do not use this medicine while wearing contact lenses.

What form(s) does Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim come in

  • Liquid

  • Drop

What are common Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim doses?

  • Bottle Of Spray 10ml of 10000units/1mg/ml

Common Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim prescriptions

  • Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim
    10ml of 10000units/1mg/ml bottle of spray

How to take Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.

  • Ophthalmic routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.

  • Ophthalmic routeShake the eye drops well just before each use.

  • Ophthalmic routeLie down or tilt your head back. With your index finger, pull down the lower lid of your eye to form a pocket.

  • If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medicine. You may insert them again after 15 minutes.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

  • Ophthalmic routeShake the eye drops well just before each use.

  • Ophthalmic routeLie down or tilt your head back. With your index finger, pull down the lower lid of your eye to form a pocket.

  • Take all of the medicine in your prescription to clear up your infection, even if you feel better after the first few doses.

  • Ophthalmic routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.

  • If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medicine. You may insert them again after 15 minutes.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to polymyxin B or trimethoprim.

Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim warnings

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Ophthalmic routeIf you hurt your eye, develop an eye infection, or need to have eye surgery, talk with your doctor right away. You may need to change your medicine or stop using it.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim interactions

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • Tell your doctor if you wear contact lenses. You may not be able to wear them while your infection is being treated.

  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Polymyxin B-Trimethoprim side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Increased redness, burning, or pain in your eye

  • Swelling of your eyelid

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Mild irritation in your eye when you use the drops