Tobradex vs. Gentak

Tobradex (tobramycin and dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension) and Gentak (gentamicin sulfate ophthalmic ointment) are used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes.

Tobradex and Gentak both contain antibiotics. Tobradex also contains a steroid.

Side effects of Tobradex and Gentak that are similar include eye redness, discomfort, burning, stinging, irritation, itching; eyelid itching/swelling, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light.

Use of Tobradex and Gentak for prolonged/repeated periods may result in a new fungal eye infection and may increase your risk for other eye problems (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts).

Both Tobradex and Gentak may interact with other eye drops or eye medications.

Tobradex may also interact with oral steroids.

Common side effects of Tobradex include:

• eye redness,
• discomfort,
• burning,
• stinging,
• irritation,
• itching;
• eyelid itching/swelling,
• blurred vision, or
• sensitivity to light.
• Use of Tobradex for prolonged/repeated periods may result in a new fungal eye infection and may increase your risk for other eye problems (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts).

Common side effects of Gentak include:

• eye burning,
• stinging,
• irritation,
• itching,
• redness,
• blurred vision,
• eyelid itching,
• eyelid swelling, or
• sensitivity to light.

Use of Gentak for prolonged or repeated periods may result in other types of eye infections, including fungal infections. Tell your doctor if you notice new or worsening eye symptoms (such as pain, swelling, thick discharge or pus).

Tobradex (tobradex b sulfate) is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, meningitis, blood infections, and eye infections.

Gentak (gentamicin sulfate) Ophthalmic Ointment is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes. Gentak Ophthalmic Ointment is available in generic form.

Tobradex may interact with oral steroid medications. Other drugs may interact with Tobradex ophthalmic. Tell your doctor all prescription or over-the-counter medicines or supplements you use. Tobradex should be used only when prescribed during pregnancy. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Other drugs may interact with Gentak ophthalmic. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before using Gentak ophthalmic; it is unknown if it will harm a fetus. It is unknown if Gentak ophthalmic passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

One or two drops of Tobradex ophthalmic should be instilled into the conjunctival sac(s) every four to six hours. During the initial 24 to 48 hours, the dosage may be increased to one or two drops every two (2) hours. Do not use other eye drops or medications during treatment with Tobradex ophthalmic unless directed by your doctor.

The recommended dose of Gentak is a small amount (approximately 1/2 inch ribbon) of ointment applied to the affected eye(s) two or three times a day. Do not use other eye drops or medications during treatment with Gentak ophthalmic unless directed by your doctor.