Opthamycin-F

Tobramycin (0.3% w/v) + Fluorometholone (0.1% w/v)
Price: ₹110 - ₹150
Mfr: Cipla Ltd | Form: Ophthalmic Suspension

📋 Clinical Overview

A sterile, topical ophthalmic suspension combining an aminoglycoside antibiotic (Tobramycin) with a potent corticosteroid (Fluorometholone). It is indicated for steroid-responsive inflammatory ocular conditions where a risk of superficial bacterial infection exists or where such an infection is suspected. The combination provides broad-spectrum antibacterial coverage against common ocular pathogens while suppressing inflammation.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: One drop instilled into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) every 4 to 6 hours. In severe inflammation, may be used hourly initially, tapering frequency as inflammation subsides.

Note: 1. Wash hands before use. 2. Shake the suspension well before each use. 3. Tilt head back, pull lower eyelid down to form a pouch. 4. Instill prescribed number of drops. 5. Close eyes gently for 1-2 minutes, applying gentle pressure to the nasolacrimal duct (inner corner of eye) to minimize systemic absorption. 6. Do not touch dropper tip to any surface to avoid contamination. 7. Wait at least 5-10 minutes before instilling any other eye medication.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to Tobramycin, other aminoglycosides, Fluorometholone, or any component of the formulation
  • Viral diseases of the cornea and conjunctiva (e.g., epithelial herpes simplex keratitis, vaccinia, varicella)
  • Fungal diseases of ocular structures
  • Mycobacterial infection of the eye
  • Acute purulent untreated infections (may be masked)

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Tobramycin binds irreversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, inhibiting protein synthesis and causing bacterial cell death. Fluorometholone binds to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors, inducing the synthesis of anti-inflammatory proteins (lipocortins) which inhibit phospholipase A2, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and other mediators of inflammation, edema, and capillary dilation.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Transient burning or stinging upon instillation
  • Blurred vision temporarily after application
  • Mild ocular irritation/itching
  • Foreign body sensation

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Animal studies show risk, but no adequate, well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Systemic corticosteroids are known to cause fetal harm. Use minimal effective dose for shortest duration.

Driving: May cause temporary blurred vision after instillation. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until vision clears.

🔄 Drug Interactions

Other Aminoglycosides (e.g., Gentamicin eye drops)Additive risk of ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity if systemically absorbed; potential for local toxicity.Moderate
Systemic Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone)Additive systemic steroid effects, increasing risk of hyperglycemia, adrenal suppression, and Cushingoid state.Moderate
Non-depolarizing Muscle Relaxants (e.g., Tubocurarine)Tobramycin may potentiate neuromuscular blockade if significant systemic absorption occurs.Major (theoretical for topical use)
Loop Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)May increase the risk of ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity of Tobramycin if systemically absorbed.Moderate (theoretical for topical use)
Cholinesterase Inhibitors (e.g., Pilocarpine for glaucoma)Fluorometholone may reduce the anti-glaucoma effect.Moderate

🔁 Alternatives to Opthamycin-F

Same composition (Tobramycin (0.3% w/v) + Fluorometholone (0.1% w/v)), different brands:

Tobradex Tobaflu Tobracort-F Tobraflur