Which aminoglycoside is less toxic to the eye?

Which aminoglycoside is less toxic to the eye?

• A. Tobramycin
• B. Gentamicin
• C. Amikacin
• D. Streptomycin

Answer: (A)

Ocular tolerability of aminoglycosides is a key consideration when choosing an eye antibiotic. Tobramycin tends to be better tolerated on the ocular surface than other aminoglycosides, showing less corneal epithelial toxicity and fewer irritation effects with topical use. This makes it a preferred option for treating eye infections while minimizing damaging effects to the cornea and conjunctiva. Gentamicin, while similar in antibacterial spectrum, is more likely to cause ocular surface irritation with prolonged use. Amikacin has a broader coverage and can be more irritating to the eye in some patients, so it’s used more selectively. Streptomycin isn’t commonly used topically in ophthalmology because it penetrates poorly and carries higher toxicity concerns. So, the choice with the most favorable eye tolerability among these is tobramycin.

Ocular tolerability of aminoglycosides is a key consideration when choosing an eye antibiotic. Tobramycin tends to be better tolerated on the ocular surface than other aminoglycosides, showing less corneal epithelial toxicity and fewer irritation effects with topical use. This makes it a preferred option for treating eye infections while minimizing damaging effects to the cornea and conjunctiva. Gentamicin, while similar in antibacterial spectrum, is more likely to cause ocular surface irritation with prolonged use. Amikacin has a broader coverage and can be more irritating to the eye in some patients, so it’s used more selectively. Streptomycin isn’t commonly used topically in ophthalmology because it penetrates poorly and carries higher toxicity concerns. So, the choice with the most favorable eye tolerability among these is tobramycin.