Tobramycin

Antibiotic (eye drops)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Tobramycin is a antibiotic (eye drops) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Tobrex. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats bacterial eye infections.

How it works

An aminoglycoside antibiotic used mainly as eye drops (often with dexamethasone) for eye infections, and by injection or inhalation in hospital.

How to take it

Eye drops: 1 to 2 drops every 4 hours or as directed for 5 to 7 days.

Common side effects

  • Eye stinging
  • Itching
  • Red eyelids

Get medical help straight away if

  • Eye pain or worsening redness
  • Vision changes

Be careful

Do not touch the dropper to the eye.

Other medicines and interactions

Wait 5 minutes between different eye drops.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Eye drops are generally acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Brands of Tobramycin (1)

Tobrex

Common questions

What is Tobramycin used for?

Treats bacterial eye infections.

How does Tobramycin work?

An aminoglycoside antibiotic used mainly as eye drops (often with dexamethasone) for eye infections, and by injection or inhalation in hospital.

How should I take Tobramycin?

Eye drops: 1 to 2 drops every 4 hours or as directed for 5 to 7 days.

What are the side effects of Tobramycin?

Common: Eye stinging, itching, red eyelids. Get help straight away for: Eye pain or worsening redness, vision changes.

Does Tobramycin interact with other medicines?

Wait 5 minutes between different eye drops.

Is Tobramycin safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Eye drops are generally acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Tobramycin need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Tobramycin?

Tobrex.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.