DrugindexOnline^{2nd edition}

Pronouncation: (Bass-ih-TRAY-sin zingk/pal-ee-MIX-in BEE SULL-fate)
Class: Antibiotic

Trade Names:
Polysporin
- Ophthalmic ointment 500 units/g bacitracin zinc and 10,000 units/g polymyxin B sulfate

Trade Names:
AK-Poly-Bac
- Ophthalmic ointment 500 units/g bacitracin zinc and 10,000 units/g polymyxin B sulfate

Optimyxin Ointment (Canada)

Mechanism of Action

Pharmacology

Polymyxin B

Interacts with phospholipid components of bacterial cell membrane, increasing cell wall permeability.

Bacitracin

Interferes with bacterial cell wall synthesis by inhibiting regeneration of phospholipid receptors involved with peptidoglycan synthesis.

Indications and Usage

Treatment of superficial ocular infections, involving the conjunctiva and/or cornea, caused by susceptible organisms.

Contraindications

Standard considerations.

Dosage and Administration

Ophthalmic Apply every 3 or 4 h for 7 to 10 days, depending on severity of infection.

General Advice

• For ophthalmic use only. Not for use on the skin.
• If using other topical ophthalmic medications, instill drops first, wait at least 5 min, and instill ointment last.

Storage/Stability

Store at controlled room temperature (59° to 86°F). Keep tightly closed.

Drug Interactions

None well documented.

Laboratory Test Interactions

None well documented.

Adverse Reactions

Miscellaneous

Itching; swelling; eye redness; eye irritation; allergic reaction.

Precautions

Monitor Notify health care provider if eye or eyelid inflammation is noted, or if symptoms do not improve or worsen.

Pregnancy

Bacitracin

Category C .

Polymyxin B

Category B .

Lactation

Undetermined.

Superinfection

Prolonged use may result in bacterial or fungal overgrowth of nonsusceptible microorganisms.

Corneal healing

Corneal healing may be retarded.

Patient Information

• Review prescribed dosing schedule with patient, family, or caregiver.
• Remind patient, family, or caregiver that ointment is for use in eye only.
• Teach patient, family, or caregiver proper technique for instilling ointment: wash hands; do not allow tip of tube to touch eye, eyelid, fingers, or any other surface. Tilt head back, look up; pull lower eyelid down to form pocket; place prescribed amount of ointment in pocket. Look downward before closing eye. Do not rub eye.
• Advise patient, family, or caregiver that if more than 1 topical ophthalmic drug is being used, instill eye drops first, wait at least 5 min, and then instill ointment last.
• Inform patient that temporary blurred vision and stinging of eye are most common adverse reactions and to contact a health care provider if adverse reactions occur and are bothersome.
• Advise patient to contact an eye doctor if eye or eyelid inflammation is noted, or if eye symptoms do not improve or worsen.
• Advise patient that the entire course of therapy must be completed to ensure max benefit and to complete full course of therapy even if symptoms have resolved.
• Instruct patient not to wear contact lenses during treatment.