Toba Eye Drops (Tobramycin)

Indications for antimicrobial therapy

Toba is a fast-acting antimicrobial agent (antibiotic) widely used in modern clinical practice. The medication is available as a solution and is intended for external use only (eye instillation).

Tobramycin (3 mg/mL) is the water-soluble active ingredient. Tobramycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is active against many gram-negative and, less commonly, gram-positive pathogens.

These antimicrobial drops are used to treat infections of the surface and other parts of the eye.

Pharmacological effect

Toba drops create an effective concentration of the medication at the site of inflammation (on the surface of the eye). After administration, the antibiotic has a targeted effect on pathogenic microorganisms.

Toba has a bactericidal effect. It binds to bacterial ribosomes, interfering with protein synthesis. When bacteria are exposed to the medication, one of the following occurs:

• Ribosomes produce defective bacterial proteins.
• Protein synthesis is inhibited.

Microorganisms exposed to the antibiotic die. Continued use of the drops helps eliminate bacteria that were not initially exposed to the medication.

Dosage guide

By holding an open bottle above the eye with the medication directed upside down, you get drops (doses) of the same size. There is no need to squeeze the bottle from the sides. To get one drop, just tap or press on the bottom of the bottle.

The dosage regimen for Toba eye drops in mild to moderate ophthalmic infections:

• Recommended dose range: 1-2 drops
• Dosing frequency: every 4 hours

Dosage regimen in severe ophthalmic infections:

• Optimal single dose: 2 drops
• Dosing frequency: every hour

If there is a need to use different types of ophthalmic products, they should be administered at intervals of at least 5-15 minutes.

The treatment duration depends on the clinical course of the disease. The doctor decides the duration of therapy based on objective data, including the possible risk of adverse reactions, the severity of clinical symptoms, and the effectiveness of the medication.

Take the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve or disappear. All microorganisms that cause the infection must be eliminated.

Possible adverse effects of Toba

This medication has a bactericidal effect, which has been confirmed by clinical studies. Along with its beneficial effects, Toba can cause unwanted effects, although not everyone experiences them.

Possible adverse reactions include:

• temporary blurred vision
• a feeling that something is under the eyelid
• increased tearing
• eye irritation
• swelling of the eyelids
• redness of the sclera (white part of the eye)

Most adverse effects are mild, occur early in treatment, and resolve over time.

Ophthalmic treatment can lead to hypersensitivity reactions in some patients. Do not use Toba if you are allergic to:

• any medication containing tobramycin;
• any of the inactive ingredients in Toba.

If signs of severe reactions or hypersensitivity occur during treatment, discontinue use. If you notice a rash on your face or any other area of your body, consult your doctor for further instructions.

Eye instillation technique

To get the best results, use the drops correctly. An ophthalmologist or pharmacist can provide advice for your specific situation. Read the patient leaflet before you begin treatment.

In most cases, the correct technique is:

• Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them with a clean towel.
• Warm the bottle in your hands if the solution is cold.
• If you wear contact lenses, remove them (it is not recommended to wear contact lenses during bacterial eye infections).
• Unscrew the cap from the bottle.
• Lie down or sit in front of a mirror, or sit comfortably in a chair.
• Tilt your head back.
• Hold the bottle upside down about 2-3 cm above the eye, avoiding contact with eyelashes, eyelids, and the eye.
• Pull down the lower eyelid with one or two fingers.
• Tap/press the base of the bottle so the drop enters the eye (closer to the outer corner).
• Close your eyes and wait a few minutes.
• Repeat for the other eye if advised.
• Close the bottle and follow storage recommendations.

Toba eye drops for babies

Data for the treatment of infants under 12 months of age are limited. Toba 0.3% eye drops can be used to treat children aged 1 year and older at the same dosage used in adults.

Young children may be afraid of unfamiliar procedures. To reduce distress, act calmly and quickly and prepare in advance.

Additional recommendations:

• If stored in the refrigerator, warm the bottle in your palms or place it in warm, clean water before use.
• Children under 6-7 years of age should be laid on a flat surface.
• Ensure the child is calm. Avoid instillation if the child resists or cries.
• When pulling down the lower eyelid, do not touch the surface of the eye.
• After instilling Toba, hold the eyelid for a few seconds to allow the liquid to spread.
• Some medication may leak out; with correct technique, the right amount still enters the eye.
• If the child closed the eye and the solution did not enter, repeat the procedure.
• Do not allow the solution to enter the nose.
• Wipe away leaked medication with a clean cotton pad.
• Keep the child lying down for a few minutes.
• Prevent the child from rubbing their eyes immediately after use.

Important information you should know

While using Toba, it is better to temporarily stop wearing contact lenses. This is a general recommendation rather than a strict contraindication. Avoid wearing lenses during inflammatory eye diseases.

Toba contains substances that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses, leading to deterioration and discoloration.

If you continue wearing lenses, remove them before instillation and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.

During use, maintain hygiene and avoid contaminating the dropper tip. Never share eye drops with other people.

Cold eye drops can cause discomfort; warm the bottle in your hands before use.

Driving a car

The effect of this medication on activities requiring alertness is usually negligible. However, temporary blurred vision may occur after instillation. Wait until your vision is clear before driving, using tools, operating machinery, or performing hazardous activities.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Although systemic absorption is negligible, Toba should only be used during pregnancy when clearly needed.

Using Toba while breastfeeding is not recommended.

Exposure to infants is not expected, but risks cannot be completely ruled out. Your doctor should decide whether to stop breastfeeding during treatment, taking into account the benefits for the mother and the baby.

Storage

When not using the drops, keep the bottle tightly closed and store it according to the leaflet.

Sunlight and high temperatures can degrade ingredients. A humid environment can promote microbial growth on the vial.

Recommended storage temperature is up to 25°C. This medication can be stored in the refrigerator but should not be frozen.

Toba sterile solution should be clear or slightly yellowish. If the color has changed, do not use it.