Maxitrol (Neomycin Sulfate, Polymyxin B Sulfate, Dexamethasone)

Maxitrol acts on bacterial ocular infections and associated inflammatory processes.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis: reduces bacterial load and inflammation, accelerating symptom relief.
• Keratitis: eradicates pathogenic organisms and diminishes corneal inflammation to preserve visual acuity.
• Post‑operative ocular inflammation: controls postoperative swelling and pain while preventing secondary infection.
• General ocular inflammation: provides anti‑inflammatory effect in mixed infectious‑inflammatory eye conditions.

• Neomycin sulfate inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding the 30S ribosomal subunit, while Polymyxin B sulfate disrupts bacterial cell‑membrane integrity, leading to rapid bacterial death. Dexamethasone, a potent glucocorticoid, penetrates ocular tissues, binds intracellular glucocorticoid receptors and modulates gene transcription, thereby suppressing the release of inflammatory mediators and reducing edema and pain.

Adverse reactions may occur with ocular administration of Maxitrol.

Common Side Effects

• Burning or stinging sensation upon instillation.
• Temporary blurred vision.
• Mild conjunctival hyperemia.
• Foreign‑body sensation.
• Increased tear production.
• Mild itching or irritation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic contact dermatitis or severe hypersensitivity reaction.
• Elevated intra‑ocular pressure leading to glaucoma.
• Secondary fungal or viral eye infection.
• Cataract formation with prolonged use.
• Corneal ulceration or perforation.
• Systemic absorption causing adrenal suppression (very rare).

Use of Maxitrol requires careful consideration of patient‑specific factors.

• Pregnancy: safety not established; avoid unless benefit outweighs risk.
• Breastfeeding: unknown excretion; use with caution.
• Contact lens wearers: discontinue lenses during therapy and resume after treatment completion.
• Duration: limit use to the prescribed period to reduce risk of steroid‑related complications.
• Monitor: watch for signs of secondary infection or rising intra‑ocular pressure.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from light and moisture.

Maxitrol may interact with other ocular or systemic agents.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Systemic corticosteroids: additive immunosuppression may increase infection risk.
• Topical antifungal eye drops: may reduce efficacy of the antibacterial components.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory eye drops: increased ocular irritation.
• Topical ocular anesthetics: heightened corneal toxicity potential.
• Systemic immunosuppressants: monitor for opportunistic ocular infections.