Maxitrol (Neomycin Sulfate, Polymyxin B Sulfate, Dexamethasone)

Maxitrol is used to manage ocular infections and inflammation across several common eye conditions.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis: reduces bacterial load and associated inflammation in infected eyes.
• Allergic conjunctivitis: alleviates allergic swelling, redness and itching.
• Post‑operative eye inflammation: controls inflammation and prevents infection after eye surgery.
• Ocular inflammation (non‑infectious): diminishes swelling, pain and redness in various inflammatory eye disorders.

• Dexamethasone binds glucocorticoid receptors, modulating gene transcription to suppress inflammatory mediators. Neomycin, an aminoglycoside, interferes with bacterial ribosomal function, inhibiting protein synthesis. Polymyxin B binds lipopolysaccharide on gram‑negative bacterial membranes, disrupting integrity and causing cell death. Together, the three agents provide anti‑inflammatory and broad‑spectrum antibacterial activity within the ocular surface.

Common Side Effects

• Burning or stinging sensation upon instillation.
• Transient blurred vision.
• Mild eye irritation or itching.
• Temporary foreign‑body feeling.
• Slight eyelid edema.
• Mild conjunctival redness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction with swelling, rash or hives.
• Severe eye pain or worsening redness.
• Vision loss or sudden decrease in visual acuity.
• Secondary ocular infection or corneal ulceration.
• Elevated intra‑ocular pressure leading to glaucoma.
• Persistent or worsening inflammation despite therapy.

Before using Maxitrol, consider the following precautions.

• Confirm bacterial infection: ensure the condition is bacterial before initiating therapy.
• Avoid viral or fungal eye infections: corticosteroids may exacerbate non‑bacterial pathogens.
• Monitor intra‑ocular pressure: patients with steroid‑responsive glaucoma need regular pressure checks.
• Limit duration: do not exceed the prescribed treatment period without medical review.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from light and moisture.

Maxitrol may interact with other ophthalmic agents.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Systemic corticosteroids: may increase systemic steroid exposure.
• Contact lens wear: can enhance drug absorption and cause irritation.
• Concurrent ophthalmic antibiotics: may lead to additive toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory eye drops: may affect healing response.
• Anticholinergic eye drops: could reduce tear production and exacerbate dryness.
• Topical ocular anesthetics: may mask early signs of irritation or infection.