Antibiotic-Steroid Combination (Eye/Ear Drops)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination eye and ear drop containing two antibiotics (framycetin and gramicidin) that kill bacteria, plus a steroid (dexamethasone) that reduces swelling, redness, and pain. It is sold in Nigeria as Framoptic-D Eye/Ear Drops.
Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to bacterial ribosomes (framycetin and gramicidin) while dexamethasone sodium phosphate binds glucocorticoid receptors to suppress inflammatory cytokine production, reducing swelling, erythema, and bacterial proliferation in ocular and otic tissues.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For eye infections, put 1 to 2 drops into the affected eye every 1 to 2 hours at first, then reduce to 3 to 4 times daily as the condition improves. For ear infections, put 2 to 3 drops into the affected ear 3 to 4 times daily. Always wash your hands before and after use, and do not let the dropper tip touch your eye, ear, or any surface.
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. 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 a 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.
Always buy Framoptic-D from a reputable pharmacy — do not buy eye or ear drops from roadside sellers as improper storage can make them unsafe or ineffective. Complete the full course as prescribed by your doctor even if symptoms improve early, to prevent the infection from coming back. Do not share your eye or ear drops with anyone else, as this can spread infection.
Do not use other eye or ear drops at the same time without your doctor's approval — wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between different drops. If you are using any steroid medication (tablets or injections), let your doctor know as the combination may increase side effects. Avoid using this together with other aminoglycoside antibiotics as it may increase the risk of side effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Framycetin with your other drugs?
Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically says it is safe, as the steroid component may pose risks to the baby.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in a car or near a window. Keep the bottle tightly closed after use and out of children's reach. Once opened, use within 4 weeks and throw away any remaining drops after that.
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.