Trusted, medically reviewed health information • Not a substitute for medical advice
Medically Verified MonographPrescription OnlyClass: Aminoglycosides

Tobramycin

Generic Name: Tobramycin

Common Brand Names: TOBI, Tobrex, Bethkis
Dosage Form:Inhalation Solution, Ophthalmic Solution/Ointment, Injection
Route:Inhalation, Ophthalmic, Intravenous/Intramuscular
Pregnancy Category:D
Last Reviewed:9/21/2026

Seek Urgent Medical Attention If:

You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing), severe rash with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose. Call emergency medical services immediately.

Uses & Medical Indications

Management of cystic fibrosis patients with P. aeruginosa, superficial eye infections

Medical Conditions Treated:

Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in CF, Bacterial conjunctivitis, Serious systemic infections

Dosage & Administration Guidelines

Adult Dosage

Inhalation: 300 mg twice daily. IV: 3-5 mg/kg/day in divided doses.

Pediatric Dosage

Inhalation: 300 mg twice daily (6 years and older)

Elderly / Geriatric Considerations

Select dose cautiously based on renal function

Maximum Dose Limit

Based on indication and serum levels

Renal Impairment:

Dosage reduction/interval extension required for IV use

Hepatic Impairment:

No adjustment generally needed

Side Effects & Safety Warnings

Common Side Effects

Inhalation: voice alteration, cough. Ophthalmic: tearing, irritation.

Serious Adverse Reactions

Nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, neuromuscular blockade

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity to aminoglycosides

Important Warnings & Precautions:

Risk of permanent hearing loss and kidney damage with systemic use

Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Loop diuretics, other nephrotoxic/ototoxic drugs

Food & Dietary Interactions:

N/A

Alcohol Interaction Warning:

N/A

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety

Pregnancy Safety

Avoid systemic use unless essential

Breastfeeding / Lactation

Not recommended with systemic use

Patient Counseling & Practical Advice

How to Take:

Inhalation: Use a nebulizer as directed, take as close to 12 hours apart as possible.

What to Do if You Miss a Dose:

Take as soon as remembered if at least 6 hours until next dose (for inhalation).

Recommended Monitoring & Lab Tests:

Auditory function, renal function, serum concentrations (for IV)

Trustworthy Sources & Medical Review

Content for Tobramycin was synthesized and fact-checked against standardized regulatory monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and national health authorities:

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
  • World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines 23rd List
  • Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
  • National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
Reviewer Credentials: PharmD, Clinical PharmacologistLast Reviewed Date: 9/21/2026

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.