Triple Antibiotic (Generic) Ophthalmic Ointment

What is Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment?
Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment is a combination of three antibiotics: Neomycin, Polymyxin B, and Bacitracin. It is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes and eyelids.

Who is it for?
Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment is for dogs, cats, and horses.

What are the benefits?

How does Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment work?
It uses three antibiotics to kill bacteria in and around the eye.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
This medication is a generic.

How is it given?
Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment is applied topically. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty applying the medication, contact your veterinarian.

If discharge is present, the area should be cleansed with a sterile eyewash solution prior to applying the ointment or solution. When applying ointments, place one hand under and around your pet's chin and lift upward, so your pet's eyes are looking toward the ceiling. Pull down gently on the lower lid with a finger or thumb, depending upon which eye you are treating.

Rest your other hand on top of your pet's head. Be sure the tip of the tube is pointed away from your pet's eye so if your pet jerks, the tube tip will not injure the eye.

Hold the tube of ointment about one inch from the eye and apply a short ribbon of ointment along the inner edge of the lower lid, starting at the inside corner of the eye. Rotate the tube when you reach the outer portion of the eye to help detach the ointment from the tube. Have your pet blink, and gently hold the eyelid shut.

Gently massage the closed eyelid to disperse the ointment. Ointments will blur your animal's vision for a few minutes after administration. Prevent your pet from bumping into things and becoming injured.

Never touch the tip of the tube to the pet's eye, lids, or eyelashes. Do not touch the inside of the cap with your fingers, as this will also contaminate the medication.

What results can I expect?
Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment will work to kill the bacteria that are causing the infection. It will need to be applied multiple times to have the desired effect. Follow your veterinarian's directions. Your pet's eye should start to look better in 48 hours. If the infection does not improve within several days or if the condition worsens, contact your veterinarian. If the entire course of treatment is not given, the infection may recur or worsen.

What form(s) does it come in?
This medication comes in ointment form.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Neobacimyx, TriOptic-P

Common Drug Name
Bacitracin-neomycin-polymixin ophthalmic ointment

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment?
Talk to your veterinarian about what tests and exams may be necessary while your pet is taking Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment. Also discuss how long the treatment period will be and what type of outcome is expected.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has an allergy to any medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the application you missed and go back to the regular schedule.

What is the most important information I should know?
It is necessary to give this medication exactly as prescribed. Missed doses or stopping treatment too early could cause the infection to worsen or recur. If the eye condition would worsen while using Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Who should not take it?
Do not use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to any of the ingredients.

What side effects may be seen when taking Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment?
Side effects are unusual with this medication. The medication may cause the eye to sting for a short time when first applied. Some cats may have a fatal allergic (anaphylactic) reaction to the antibiotic combination of these drugs. It is not known which of the components is the cause of this fatal reaction. If your cat has swelling of the face, itching, or appears to have difficulty breathing, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

Prolonged use of this medication could result in a more serious bacterial or fungal infection.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Adverse reactions and toxicities are unlikely if used according to directions. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any abnormal signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Triple Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment?
Consult your veterinarian before using antibiotic ophthalmic preparations with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, since interactions may occur.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.