Tobramycin
Tobramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, particularly those caused by gram-negative organisms like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is commonly prescribed for respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis patients, severe systemic infections, and eye infections. The medication works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, leading to bacterial cell death.
Tobramycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic for treating serious gram-negative bacterial infections, especially respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis patients.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- J01GB01
- RxNorm
- 10627
- Generic
- Tobramycin
- Class
- atc-j01
- Brands
- Bethkis, Kitabis, Tobi, Tobradex, Tobrex, Zylet
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- ophthalmic
- Forms
- ointment, suspension, powder, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Tobramycin is used to treat respiratory infections in cystic fibrosis patients (particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa), serious systemic infections, bone and joint infections, skin and soft tissue infections, burns, and eye infections. It is often reserved for moderate to severe infections or when other antibiotics are ineffective.
As an aminoglycoside antibiotic, tobramycin binds to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit, disrupting protein synthesis by causing misreading of mRNA. This leads to defective bacterial cell membrane formation and ultimately bacterial cell death.
Tobramycin carries significant risks including ototoxicity (hearing loss, dizziness) and nephrotoxicity (kidney damage). Regular monitoring of serum drug levels, kidney function, and hearing is essential during treatment. It should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing kidney problems, hearing disorders, or neuromuscular conditions. Pregnancy category D - use only if benefits outweigh risks.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy