Neomycin and Polymyxin B Sulfates and Bacitracin Zinc

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Neomycin and polymyxin B sulfates and bacitracin zinc ophthalmic ointment is indicated for the topical treatment of superficial infections of the external eye and its adnexa caused by susceptible bacteria. Such infections encompass conjunctivitis, keratitis and keratoconjunctivitis, blepharitis and blepharoconjunctivitis.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Apply the ointment topically into the conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) every 3 or 4 hours for 7 to 10 days, depending on the severity of the infection.

WARNINGS NOT FOR INJECTION INTO THE EYE Neomycin and polymyxin B sulfates and bacitracin zinc ophthalmic ointment should never be directly introduced into the anterior chamber of the eye. Ophthalmic ointments may retard corneal wound healing. Topical antibiotics, particularly neomycin sulfate, may cause cutaneous sensitization. A precise incidence of hypersensitivity reactions (primarily skin rash) due to topical antibiotics is not known. The manifestations of sensitization to topical antibiotics are usually itching, reddening, and edema of the conjunctiva and eyelid. A sensitization reaction may manifest simply as a failure to heal. During long-term use of topical antibiotic products, periodic examination for such signs is advisable, and the patient should be told to discontinue the product if they are observed. Symptoms usually subside quickly on withdrawing the medication. Application of products containing these ingredients should be avoided for the patient thereafter ( see PRECAUTIONS: General ).

CONTRAINDICATIONS Neomycin and polymyxin B sulfates and bacitracin zinc ophthalmic ointment is contraindicated in individuals who have shown hypersensitivity to any of its components.

Pregnancy

Nursing Mothers

ADVERSE REACTIONS Adverse reactions have occurred with the anti-infective components of neomycin and polymyxin B sulfates and bacitracin zinc ophthalmic ointment. The exact incidence is not known. Reactions occurring most often are allergic sensitization reactions including itching, swelling, and conjunctival erythema ( see WARNINGS ). More serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported rarely. Local irritation on instillation has also been reported. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Bausch & Lomb Incorporated at 1-800-553-5340 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .