ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
Steroid eye drops should be used only with an eye exam.
What it's used for
- Eye inflammation with or at risk of bacterial infection
How to take it
- Wash your hands, tilt your head back, and put a drop in the pocket of the lower lid without touching the tip.
- Wait 5 minutes between different eye drops. Remove contact lenses unless the label says otherwise.
- Shake well. Use as directed and don't stop suddenly after long use.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Stinging
- Blurry vision
Call your provider todayEye pain, vision changes, or worsening redness
Warnings
- Long use can raise eye pressure, cause cataracts, and worsen viral or fungal eye infections.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- None significant.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Ask your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Apply it when you remember, then go back to your usual schedule. Don't apply extra to make up for it.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Tobramycin and dexamethasone eye drops (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.