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Drug interactions

Neomycin po + Tobramycin

Severity: Major

Neomycin po and Tobramycin: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Oral neomycin can be absorbed in renal impairment or damaged bowel, and then adds to tobramycin nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity and neuromuscular blockade.

What this interaction means in plain words

Neomycin po and Tobramycin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive aminoglycoside toxicity to kidney and cochlea.

What to do

Avoid combining where possible. If needed, monitor renal function, tobramycin levels and hearing, especially with renal impairment or inflamed bowel.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Neomycin po with Tobramycin?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Neomycin po and Tobramycin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Oral neomycin can be absorbed in renal impairment or damaged bowel, and then adds to tobramycin nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity and neuromuscular blockade.

How serious is the interaction between Neomycin po and Tobramycin?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining where possible. If needed, monitor renal function, tobramycin levels and hearing, especially with renal impairment or inflamed bowel.

What other medicines interact with Tobramycin?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Tobramycin with, for example, Cidofovir, Adefovir, Amikacin. The full list is on the Tobramycin page.

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