Trimethoprim Polymyxin B, Polymyxin B Trimethoprim
Generic Polytrim
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim (pol i MIKS in bee & trye METH oh prim) is a generic medication prescribed for certain types of bacterial eye infections. It’s used for this purpose in adults and some children. Polymyxin B/trimethoprim belongs to a group of drugs called antibiotics.
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim (pol i MIKS in bee & trye METH oh prim) is a generic medication prescribed for certain types of bacterial eye infections. It’s used for this purpose in adults and some children. Polymyxin B/trimethoprim belongs to a group of drugs called antibiotics.
- Generic
- • Solution
- • 10ml of POLYMYXN
- • 1 Bottle
Dosage settings
Set your dosage
Make sure your dosage values are correct! In order for Optum Perks to provide the most accurate discount pricing for your prescription, take a moment to verify your dosage above.
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
- Retailer Name3.5 mi
Intro
Introduction
Written by Ashley Wong, PharmD
Medically reviewed by Timothy Ivers, PharmD, AAHIVP
Updated on November 22, 2023
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim (pol i MIKS in bee & trye METH oh prim) is a generic medication prescribed for certain types of bacterial eye infections. It’s used for this purpose in adults and some children. Polymyxin B/trimethoprim belongs to a group of drugs called antibiotics.
Uses
Uses of polymyxin b/trimethoprim
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs such as polymyxin B/trimethoprim for certain conditions. Approved uses for polymyxin B/trimethoprim are described below.
Use for certain eye infections
Doctors may prescribe polymyxin B/trimethoprim for treating certain eye infections caused by bacteria, including conjunctivitis and blepharoconjunctivitis. It’s used for this purpose in children ages 2 months and older and adults. It’s usually prescribed as a short-term treatment.
Conjunctivitis is commonly known as “pink eye.” Pink eye is an infection or inflammation of your conjunctiva, which is a clear membrane covering the white part of your eye and the inner part of your eyelid. Symptoms of conjunctivitis include pink-toned eyes, itchiness in the eyes, increased amount of tears, and a gritty feeling in your eyes.
Blepharoconjunctivitis is a combination of blepharitis and conjunctivitis. It involves inflammation of your eyelid and conjunctiva. Symptoms of blepharoconjunctivitis include crusty eyelids, red eyes, and a sensation of something in your eyes. The symptoms are typically worse in the morning, and both eyes are usually affected.
Side effects
Side effects of polymyxin B/trimethoprim
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim may cause mild or serious side effects. More common mild side effects of polymyxin B/trimethoprim and its serious side effects are listed below. This article doesn’t include all possible side effects of the drug. Side effects can vary based on your age, overall health, and any other medications you take.
To learn more about polymyxin B/trimethoprim’s side effects, ask your doctor or pharmacist. You can also refer to the prescribing information for polymyxin B/trimethoprim listed in the “Resources” section.
Mild side effects
More common mild side effects reported with polymyxin B/trimethoprim are listed below.
This article doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. To learn more about polymyxin B/trimethoprim’s side effects, refer to the prescribing information for polymyxin B/trimethoprim listed in the “Resources” section.
With many drugs, mild side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If the side effects are bothersome, tell your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to suggest ways to manage them.
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim eye drops’ mild side effects include:
- eye redness
- burning in the eyes
- stinging in the eyes
- itchiness in the eyes
- mild allergic reaction*
* For details about this side effect, see the “Interactions and warnings for polymyxin B/trimethoprim” section.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects of polymyxin B/trimethoprim are listed below.
This article doesn’t include all possible serious side effects of the drug. To learn more about polymyxin B/trimethoprim’s side effects, refer to the prescribing information for polymyxin B/trimethoprim listed in the “Resources” section.
With many drugs, serious side effects are possible but not common. If you have serious side effects from this drug, call your doctor right away. If you’re having severe symptoms or a medical emergency, call 911 or a local emergency number.
In general, polymyxin B/trimethoprim’s serious side effects include:
- severe allergic reaction*
* For details about this side effect, see the “Interactions and warnings for polymyxin B/trimethoprim” section.
Interactions and warnings
Interactions and warnings for polymyxin B/trimethoprim
Below, you’ll find information about polymyxin B/trimethoprim’s possible interactions and warnings.
Interactions of polymyxin B/trimethoprim
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim isn’t known to interact with any medications or supplements. (Interactions can affect how a drug works.) But this doesn’t mean drug interactions with polymyxin B/trimethoprim won’t happen or be reported sometime. For instance, medications created at a later time could interact with polymyxin B/trimethoprim.
Because of this, you should ask your doctor and pharmacist about possible interactions with polymyxin B/trimethoprim. They can check for any interactions that may affect you, such as those with:
- vaccines
- foods or alcohol
- other drugs
Warnings for polymyxin B/trimethoprim
Some people should not use polymyxin B/trimethoprim, and others should use it cautiously.
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim could cause harm to people with certain health conditions. This effect is called a drug-condition interaction. Other factors can also affect whether polymyxin B/trimethoprim is a safe option for you.
Ask your doctor about specific warnings for polymyxin B/trimethoprim, and be sure to tell your doctor about your:
- current health, including any allergies to medications
- past health conditions or surgeries
Allergic reaction
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible.
If you’ve had an allergic reaction to polymyxin B/trimethoprim or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe polymyxin B/trimethoprim. They can tell you about medications that are safer options for you.
A mild allergic reaction may cause the following symptoms:
A severe allergic reaction may cause the following symptoms:
- swelling under your skin, usually in your hands, feet, eyelids, or lips
- swelling of your mouth, throat, or tongue, which can cause breathing problems
If you have an allergic reaction to polymyxin B/trimethoprim, call your doctor right away. If you have severe symptoms, call 911 or a local emergency number.
Overdose of polymyxin B/trimethoprim
You should not use more polymyxin B/trimethoprim than your doctor prescribes. For some drugs, doing so may lead to harmful effects or overdose.
If you think you’ve used too much polymyxin B/trimethoprim, call your doctor or pharmacist right away. Or you could call 800-222-1222 to speak with someone at America’s Poison Centers. You can also use its online resource. If you have concerning symptoms, call 911 or a local emergency number immediately. You can also go to the closest emergency room.
Pregnancy or breastfeeding and polymyxin B/trimethoprim
Information about polymyxin B/trimethoprim and pregnancy and breastfeeding is described below.
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim and pregnancy
It’s not known whether polymyxin B/trimethoprim should be used during pregnancy. If you’re planning a pregnancy or can become pregnant, talk with your doctor before using this medication.
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim and breastfeeding
It’s not known whether polymyxin B/trimethoprim should be used while breastfeeding. If you’re currently breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor before using this medication.
FAQ
Common questions about polymyxin B/trimethoprim
Below you’ll find answers to a few commonly asked questions about polymyxin B/trimethoprim.
Is polymyxin B/trimethoprim a steroid?
No, polymyxin B/trimethoprim isn’t a steroid. It’s a combination antibiotic eye drop containing two antibiotic medications that work together to kill the bacteria causing your eye infection.
If you have more questions about this, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
How does polymyxin B/trimethoprim work? And how long does it take to start working?
Polymyxin B/trimethoprim works to treat eye infections by killing the bacteria causing the infection. Polymyxin B weakens the bacteria’s protective barrier. Trimethoprim stops bacteria from making materials they need to survive.
The drug starts working right away, but it may take a few days to start easing your symptoms.
If you’d like to know more about this, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Can I wear contact lenses while using polymyxin B/trimethoprim?
No, it’s not recommended to wear contact lenses if you have signs or symptoms of an eye infection. (Polymyxin B/trimethoprim is used to treat certain eye infections.) You should remove contacts before starting treatment with polymyxin B/trimethoprim.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about when it’s safe to wear contact lenses after your treatment.
Ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor
Let your doctor know if you have questions about polymyxin B/trimethoprim or would like more details about it.
Here’s a list of some possible questions you may want to ask your doctor:
- How long will I use polymyxin B/trimethoprim?
- How does polymyxin B/trimethoprim compare with other drugs that are used for my condition?
- Are there any alternative medications that I can take for my condition?
Resources
Resources
- Fazal MI, et al. (2023). Blepharoconjunctivitis. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558902/
- Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Orange Book: Approved drug products with therapeutic equivalence evaluations. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/ob/index.cfm
- Polymyxin B sulfate and trimethoprim, ophthalmic solution, USP. (2023). https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/4304bfb7-14ef-4c7b-a30e-792d8d92b963/spl-doc
Disclaimer: Optum Perks has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
New! No Prescription? No problem.
Affordable Online Care is here! Answer a few questions about your concern and receive a treatment plan in as little as 15 minutes, from a board-certified provider, 100% online.
Learn more