Tobradex for Dogs

If your dog suffer from an eye infection, your veterinarian might prescribe tobramycin ophthalmic ointment for treatment. Sold under the brand name Tobradex, this antibiotic helps cure or prevent bacterial infections in eyes, although it has other uses. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has only approved the use of tobramycin in people, your vet can prescribe it under an "extra-label" provision in the law.

While used primarily in dogs as an eye ointment, your vet might administer the drug in its injectable form to treat bacterial infections in the respiratory system, bloodstream and serious wounds. In these cases, it's used for very sick, hospitalized animals. While generally safe when used topically for the eyes, the injectable form can cause kidney damage, balance issues and paralysis in high doses.