Maxitrol Eye Drops SmPC: Uses, Safety, Storage
Quick summary Maxitrol eye drops are a prescription eye medicine that combines a corticosteroid with antibiotics. They are used for short-term treatment of steroid-responsive eye conditions where antibiotic treatment is also needed. Medical disclaimer...
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick summary
Maxitrol eye drops are a prescription eye medicine that combines a corticosteroid with antibiotics. They are used for short-term treatment of steroid-responsive eye conditions where antibiotic treatment is also needed.
Medical disclaimer
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for the official SmPC, patient leaflet, or advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Do not use this page to self-diagnose or to change prescribed treatment.
What Maxitrol eye drops are
Maxitrol eye drops are a prescription-only medicine used in eye conditions that respond to steroid treatment and also need antibiotic cover. The active ingredients listed in the original content are dexamethasone, polymyxin B sulfate, and neomycin sulfate.
Because this medicine contains a steroid and antibiotics, it is intended for specific situations rather than routine eye irritation.
What Maxitrol eye drops are used for
According to the original content, Maxitrol eye drops are used for short-term treatment of steroid-responsive eye conditions that require antibiotic therapy. Examples mentioned include:
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Inflammatory diseases of the eye
- Post-operative inflammation
The original content also notes that Maxitrol is not suitable for viral or fungal eye infections.
How the ingredients work
Dexamethasone
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid. In this product, it is used to help reduce inflammation.
Polymyxin B sulfate and neomycin sulfate
These are antibiotics. In the original content, they are described as providing antibacterial treatment alongside the steroid component.
Side effects mentioned in the original content
Some people may experience side effects when using Maxitrol eye drops. The original content lists the following:
- Burning or stinging after application
- Redness in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Itching or irritation
It also notes that hypersensitivity reactions can occur in rare cases. If a person develops severe itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, urgent medical help is needed.
Dosage information from the original content
The original content states that dosage depends on the severity of the condition. It gives the general pattern below:
| Point | Information in the original content |
|---|---|
| Typical amount | One to two drops in the affected eye(s) |
| Typical frequency | Up to six times daily |
| Dose changes | May be reduced as symptoms improve |
The original content also highlights the importance of following the prescriber’s instructions, including treatment duration, because steroid eye medicines can be associated with increased intraocular pressure.
Contraindications and when it should not be used
The original content lists the following situations where Maxitrol eye drops should not be used:
- Known hypersensitivity to dexamethasone, polymyxin B sulfate, or neomycin sulfate
- Active viral, fungal, or mycobacterial eye infections
- Significant corneal epithelial damage
If there is any uncertainty about whether the medicine is suitable, the official leaflet or a healthcare professional should be consulted.
Precautions and practical use tips
- Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye, fingers, or any surface.
- Do not use the bottle if the tip appears contaminated.
- Monitor symptoms and seek advice if they worsen or do not improve.
- The original content advises avoiding contact lenses during treatment.
These steps help reduce contamination and support safe use.
How to store Maxitrol eye drops
The original content says to keep the bottle tightly closed, store it at room temperature, protect it from direct sunlight and heat, and do not freeze it.
It also states that the expiry date should be checked and that opened drops are typically discarded after a specified period, often within one month, to reduce contamination risk.
Pregnancy and other special situations
The original content says the safety of Maxitrol eye drops during pregnancy has not been conclusively established. It suggests discussing the medicine with a healthcare professional during pregnancy so that benefits and risks can be considered.
If a person has other eye conditions or is using other medicines, the original content recommends discussing this with a healthcare professional before use.
Related questions
▸ What type of medicine is Maxitrol eye drops?
The original content describes Maxitrol as a prescription eye medicine that combines an antibiotic and a corticosteroid.
▸ What are the active ingredients in Maxitrol eye drops?
The active ingredients listed are dexamethasone, polymyxin B sulfate, and neomycin sulfate.
▸ Can Maxitrol eye drops be used for viral eye infections?
No. The original content states that Maxitrol is not suitable for viral or fungal eye infections.
▸ What side effects are mentioned?
The original content mentions burning or stinging, redness, blurred vision, itching, irritation, and rare hypersensitivity reactions.
▸ How should the drops be stored?
Keep the bottle closed, store at room temperature, protect from sunlight and heat, and do not freeze it.
▸ Is Maxitrol eye drops safe in pregnancy?
The original content says safety in pregnancy has not been conclusively established and advises discussing use with a healthcare professional.
Safety reminder
If you have eye pain, worsening redness, reduced vision, signs of allergy, or symptoms that do not improve, seek medical advice promptly. Always check the official SmPC or patient leaflet for the most accurate product-specific information.
Summary
Maxitrol eye drops are a prescription combination eye medicine used for short-term treatment of certain steroid-responsive eye conditions where antibiotic treatment is also needed. The original content highlights the importance of correct use, hygiene, storage, and medical supervision.
Medical disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always ask a doctor, pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Sources and verification
The following sources or official references are listed to support verification of the medicine information discussed in this article.
Medicine information can change and may vary depending on country, product formulation, patient history and professional guidance. Always check official medicine information and ask a healthcare professional for personal medical questions.