Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic

What is Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic?
This prescription eye medication treats bacterial infections of the eyes and eyelids in multiple species including dogs and cats. It contains neomycin, polymixin B, and the corticosteroid, dexamethasone.

Who is it for?
Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic is used in multiple species, including dogs and cats.

What are the benefits?

How does Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic work?
Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic contains the antibiotics neomycin and polymixin B. These antibiotics kill or stop the growth of bacteria in the eye. Dexamethasone blocks the production of substances that trigger inflammatory actions, which helps control inflammation and itching.

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

How is it given?
Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic is applied topically to the eye. There are differences in application between the suspension and ointment, so follow the appropriate application instructions.

Ointment: When applying ointment, place one hand under and around your pet's chin and lift upward, so the pet's eyes are looking towards 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 the 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 (1/4 inch) 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.

Suspension (drops): Place one hand under and around your pet's chin and lift upward, so the pet's eyes are looking towards the ceiling. Rest your other hand, holding the dropper bottle, on top of the pet's head. Squeeze the drops into the corner of the eye, taking care not to touch the dropper to the eye surface.

Continue to hold the head back for a moment while the drops disperse over the whole eye surface.

For both forms: Take care not to touch the tip of the tube/bottle to the pet's eye, lids, or eyelashes. Do not touch the inside of the cap or tube/bottle tip with your fingers, as this will also contaminate the medication. Always wash your hands before and after applying this medication.

If you are applying more than one medication to the eye, allow five minutes between applications so one medication is not washed out by the next. Be sure not to interchange the caps of the medications.

Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian.

This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

What results can I expect?
Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic will work to kill the bacteria that are causing the infection, and decrease the inflammation. 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?
Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic comes in ointment and suspension form.

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

Brand Name
Maxitrol

Pronunciation
Knee-o-MY-sin Pol-lee-MICK-sin
dex-a-METH-a-sone

Common Drug Name
Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic

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

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

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 Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Who should not take it?
Do not use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to any of the ingredients. Do not use in fungal or viral infections of the eye before healing has started. Also do not use if an ulcer on the eye could be present, since corticosteroids could cause the ulcer to worsen or rupture. Some cats may have a fatal allergic (anaphylactic) reaction to the antibiotic combination of these drugs.

What side effects may be seen when taking Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic?
Side effects are unusual. The medication may cause the eye to sting for a short time when first applied. If ingested, the corticosteroid dexamethasone may cause an increase in the amount of drinking and urinating. Less commonly, you may see an increased appetite, weight gain, panting, diarrhea, vomiting, or behavior changes.

Some cats may have a fatal allergic (anaphylactic) reaction to the antibiotic combination of these drugs. It is not known which of the components causes 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 in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature. 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 contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Neo-Poly-Dex Ophthalmic?
Prevent ingestion. If ingested at high doses or for extended periods, corticosteroids can cause premature birth or birth defects.

Consult your veterinarian before using corticosteroid ophthalmic preparations with any other medications 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.