Maxitrol

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Kenny Cheuk Yin Cheung, Pharmacist

Last updated on 03/08/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Neomycin + Polymyxin B + Dexamethasone

CHINESE NAME: 目施妥

DRUG CLASS: Corticosteroids, Antibiotics

SUB CLASS: Glucocorticoids, Aminoglycosides

USED FOR: Ocular inflammation, Bacterial eye infections

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS:
– 3500IU/6000IU/1mg (eye ointment)
– 3500IU/6000IU/1mg (eye suspension)

What is Maxitrol for?

Maxitrol is a combination of two antibiotics and one corticosteroid, therefore it can inhibit the growth of bacteria and at the same time reduce inflammation. This medication is used to manage eye inflammation associated with bacterial infections.

How to use it?

Maxitrol can be applied to the eyes as ointment or suspension.

Eye ointment:
Apply ~1.5 cm strip of ointment into the affected eyes 3-4 times daily.

Lie down or tilt your head back. With your index finger, pull down the lower lid of your eye. Hold the medication close to your eye with the other hand, and apply into your eye between your lower lid and eyeball. Close the eye and roll the eyeball in all directions to spread the medication.

Eye suspension:
Apply 1-2 drops into the affected eyes 4-6 times daily

Lie down or tilt your head back. With your index finger, pull down the lower lid of your eye. Hold the medication close to your eye with the other hand, and apply into your eye between your lower lid and eyeball. Gently close your eyes. Place your index finger over the inner corner of your eye for 1 minute.

What are the side effects of Maxitrol?

Common side effects of Maxitrol include eye stinging or burning, blurred vision, headache, and glaucoma.

Who should not take Maxitrol?

– People who are allergic to Neomycin, Polymyxin B, Dexamethasone, or any component of the formulation.
– Patients with viral or fungal diseases of the eyes

Pharmacist Tips:

– For eye suspension, shake well before use.
– Wash hands before and after use.
– Do not wear contact lenses during the treatment.
– Separate administration of other ophthalmic agents by at least 5-10 minutes.
– To avoid contamination, do not touch the tip of the tube to the eye or any other surface.
– Avoid driving or other activities requiring clear vision until drug effects are realized as it may cause blurred vision.

Common dosing schedule:
Maxitrol should be used at the same time every day.

This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications Maxitrol may interact with:
– Antifungals, e.g. Itraconazole, Ketoconazole
– Macrolide antibiotics, e.g. Clarithromycin, Erythromycin
– Ophthalmic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g. Diclofenac

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Maxitrol in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Maxitrol is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Maxitrol in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.