Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B Eye Ointment: Uses, Brands & Dosage

Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B is an antibiotic eye ointment used to treat various bacterial eye infections like blepharitis, trachoma, and superficial bacterial conjunctivitis.

Drug class	Antibiotic (Tetracycline)
Type	Combination
Forms	Eye Ointment
Common strength	5 mg + 10,000 IU per g
Common Indian brands	Terramycin Eye Ointment
Prescription status	Prescription

What Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B is used for

Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment is prescribed by your doctor to treat certain bacterial infections affecting the surface of your eye. These infections can cause discomfort, redness, and irritation. It is effective in treating:

Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids)
Trachoma (a severe bacterial eye infection that can lead to blindness if untreated)
Superficial bacterial conjunctivitis (an infection of the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye)

How it works

This medicine is a combination of two different antibiotics, Oxytetracycline and Polymyxin B. Each of these antibiotics works in a unique way to stop the growth and kill the bacteria causing your eye infection. By combining two antibiotics, this ointment provides broad coverage against many types of bacteria that commonly affect the surface of the eye. This dual action helps to effectively clear the infection and relieve your symptoms.

How it’s used

Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B is an eye ointment that needs to be applied carefully to your eye. Your doctor will tell you exactly how often to use it, but typically, it is applied 2 to 4 times a day. It is very important to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely for the best results and to prevent the infection from returning.

To apply the eye ointment:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or the ointment tube.
Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
Hold the ointment tube above your eye without letting the tip touch your eye or any other surface.
Squeeze a small ribbon of ointment (about 1 cm) into the pocket you created in your lower eyelid.
Close your eye gently for a minute or two to allow the ointment to spread.
Blot any excess ointment from around your eye with a clean tissue.
Do not rub your eye.
Wash your hands again after applying the ointment.
If you are using other eye drops or ointments, wait at least 5-10 minutes between applications to allow each medicine to be absorbed properly.

Remember that eye ointments can temporarily blur your vision after application. It is best to apply it when you don’t need clear vision, or before going to bed.

Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.

Brands available in India

Terramycin Eye Ointment

Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.

Please note

Not for use in pregnancy, breastfeeding or children under 8 years (affects developing teeth and bones). Take with plenty of water, sitting upright, and use sun protection (can cause sun sensitivity). Prescription required.

Precautions & side effects

While Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment is an effective treatment for certain eye infections, it is important to be aware of certain precautions and warnings:

Prescription Required: This medicine is a prescription-only medication. Do not use it without consulting your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: This medicine is not for use in pregnancy or during breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, please inform your doctor immediately.
Children: It is not recommended for use in children under 8 years of age. This is because it can affect developing teeth and bones.
Sun Sensitivity: This medication can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. While using this ointment, it is advisable to use sun protection, such as wearing sunglasses and a hat when outdoors, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure.
Hydration: When taking any form of tetracycline antibiotic, it is generally advised to take it with plenty of water and remain sitting upright to help prevent irritation. Although this is an eye ointment, it’s a good general health practice.
Traditional Use: This traditional ointment is still widely used and valued for treating lid-margin diseases (like blepharitis) and is an important part of trachoma control programmes.
Temporary Blurred Vision: Eye ointments can cause temporary blurred vision after application. Be careful when driving or operating machinery until your vision clears.
Allergies: If you have a known allergy to oxytetracycline, polymyxin B, or any other ingredients in the ointment, inform your doctor.
Contact Lenses: Do not wear contact lenses while you have an eye infection or while using this eye ointment. Wait until your infection has cleared and your doctor advises it is safe to resume wearing them.

Always complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. Stopping the medication too early can lead to the infection returning or becoming more difficult to treat.

Understanding Eye Infections and Your Treatment

Eye infections can be uncomfortable and concerning, but many are easily treatable with the right medication. Conditions like blepharitis, trachoma, and conjunctivitis are common bacterial infections that affect different parts of your eye. Blepharitis causes inflammation of your eyelids, often leading to redness, itching, and crusty eyelashes. Conjunctivitis, often called ‘pink eye,’ is an inflammation of the clear membrane covering the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids, making your eye appear red and watery. Trachoma is a more serious bacterial infection that, if left untreated, can lead to severe vision problems and even blindness. Your doctor has prescribed Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment to specifically target the bacteria causing your infection. This medicine is a combination of two powerful antibiotics designed to work together to eliminate the bacteria and help your eyes heal.

Correct Application and Hygiene for Eye Ointments

Proper application of eye ointment is crucial for its effectiveness and to prevent further infection. Always start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the ointment. This prevents germs from your hands from entering your eye or contaminating the ointment tube. When applying, gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze a small amount of ointment (about 1 cm) into this pocket without letting the tip of the tube touch your eye or eyelashes. This avoids contamination of the ointment. Close your eye gently for a minute or two to allow the medicine to spread. Do not rub your eye. If you are using other eye drops or ointments, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between each application. Remember that eye ointments can temporarily blur your vision, so it’s often best to apply them before bedtime or when you don’t need to perform tasks requiring clear vision. Never share your eye medication with anyone else, as this can spread infection.

General Care, Storage, and When to Seek Help

Maintaining good eye hygiene is vital when you have an eye infection. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes unnecessarily. Use a clean tissue to gently blot any discharge from your eyes and dispose of it immediately. Change your pillowcases and towels frequently and avoid sharing them with others. If you wear contact lenses, you must stop wearing them until your infection has completely cleared and your doctor advises it’s safe to resume. Store your Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture, and keep it out of reach of children. Always check the expiry date on the tube and discard any unused medicine after the treatment course is complete or after one month of opening, whichever comes first. It is important to complete the entire course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve quickly. Stopping early can lead to the infection returning or becoming resistant to antibiotics. If your symptoms worsen, do not improve after a few days of treatment, or if you experience severe eye pain, vision changes, or a rash, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will guide you on the next steps to ensure your eye health.

Frequently asked questions

What is Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment used for?

Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment is an antibiotic medicine used to treat bacterial eye infections such as blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), trachoma, and superficial bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye).

How does Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment work?

This eye ointment contains two antibiotics, Oxytetracycline and Polymyxin B. They work together by different mechanisms to kill and stop the growth of bacteria that cause eye infections, providing broad coverage against various surface bacteria.

What are the common Indian brands for this medicine?

A common Indian brand for this medicine is Terramycin Eye Ointment.

How should I use Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment?

This eye ointment is typically applied 2 to 4 times a day. You should gently pull down your lower eyelid, squeeze a small ribbon of ointment into the pocket, and then close your eye for a minute or two. Always wash your hands before and after application and follow your doctor's specific instructions.

Do I need a prescription for Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment?

Yes, Oxytetracycline + Polymyxin B eye ointment is a prescription-only medicine. You need a valid prescription from a doctor to obtain it.

What are the key precautions I should be aware of when using this ointment?

Key precautions include: it is not for use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or children under 8 years of age (due to effects on developing teeth and bones). It can cause sun sensitivity, so use sun protection. Always take it with plenty of water and remain sitting upright (general advice for tetracyclines). It is a prescription medicine.

References

Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.

This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.