Corticosteroid + Aminoglycoside Antibiotic (combination eye/ear drops)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination eye/ear drop containing two medicines: dexamethasone (a steroid that reduces swelling and redness) and gentamicin (an antibiotic that kills bacteria). Together, they treat infections while calming inflammation at the same time.
Binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, translocating to the nucleus to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine production and reduce edema and erythema; simultaneously, gentamicin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by irreversibly binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing peptide bond formation and causing bactericidal cell death.
Eye infections with swelling (conjunctivitis/apollo), ear infections, red and swollen eyes after injury or surgery, bacterial eye infections with inflammation
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you forget a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not double the drops to make up for the missed dose.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
If you are using other eye or ear drops, wait at least 5-10 minutes between applying different drops. Avoid using this with other aminoglycoside antibiotics (like neomycin drops) as it can increase the risk of side effects. Let your doctor know about all medicines you are currently using, including herbal remedies.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Dexamethasone with your other drugs?
Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically prescribes it, as both ingredients may pose risks to the baby.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat, so avoid leaving it on windowsills or inside hot cars. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Keep away from children. Once opened, most eye/ear drops should be used within 28 days, so throw it away after that even if there is still some left.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.