Medication information

Polysporin Opht. Oint. 500+10,000IU opht. oint.

This medication is typically used to treat an infection of the eyelid or for conjunctivitis (infection of the clear covering of the front of the eye). It produces its action on its first day of use.

Instructions

This medication is for the eye. To use:

  • wash your hands as well as the skin surrounding the affected eye;
  • gently pull down the lower lid of the affected eye;
  • apply one dab of the product;
  • unless your condition prevents you from doing so, close the eye for at least 1 minute, while gently pressing on the inner corner of the eye, near the nose.


Your vision may be blurred for a few minutes.

To avoid contaminating the medication, do not let the tip of the applicator touch your fingers or any part of your eye. Close the container tightly after each use.

Continue applying the product to complete the prescribed course of treatment, even after improvement is seen or felt.

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Generally, a treatment with this medication lasts several days. Use it for the entire time prescribed in order to achieve the medication's full benefit.

Side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

  • when used, it may cause local irritation.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Once opened, the product must be used within 30 days. Any unused portion should be discarded.

Additional Information

You should not wear contact lenses for the whole treatment period of the infection. Use new lenses or ensure a meticulous cleaning of your lenses once the infection is cleared.

General notes

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

  • Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
  • If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
  • If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
  • The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.


It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.