Corticosteroid and Antibiotic combination (eye preparation)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination eye drop containing two medicines: Dexamethasone (a steroid that reduces swelling and redness) and Tobramycin (an antibiotic that kills bacteria). Together, they treat eye infections while calming inflammation at the same time.
Binds to glucocorticoid receptors in ocular tissues, suppressing inflammatory mediators and immune response, while tobramycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, providing combined anti-inflammatory and bactericidal action.
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 put double 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.
Do not use this eye drop for longer than your doctor prescribed, as using steroid eye drops for too long can damage your eyes permanently. Buy only from reputable pharmacies; brands like Tobradex Eye Drop or Obadex Eye Drops are well known in Nigeria. Do not share your eye drops with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms, as eye infections can spread through contaminated bottles.
If you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between each one so they do not wash each other out. Tell your doctor if you are using other steroid medicines (tablets or creams) as the combination may increase steroid side effects. Avoid using this with other aminoglycoside antibiotics like gentamicin eye drops unless your doctor says so.
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 the steroid component may pose risks to your baby.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. In Nigeria's hot weather, keep it in a cool, dry place; you can store it in the fridge but do not freeze it. Keep out of reach of children. Once opened, most eye drops should be used within 4 weeks, so throw it away after that even if there is 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
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
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.