Key takeaways
Polytrim (polymyxin B / trimethoprim) and Ocuflox (ofloxacin) are both antibiotic eye drops used to treat bacterial eye infections, but they have some key differences. Polytrim is a combination of two antibiotics, polymyxin B and trimethoprim, and is used for mild-to-moderate infections in adults and children as young as 2 months. It needs to be applied every 3 hours, up to 6 times a day, for 7 to 10 days. Ocuflox, on the other hand, is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for bacterial conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers in people aged 1 year and older. The dosing schedule for Ocuflox varies depending on the condition being treated, and it can require more frequent applications, especially in the first few days. Both medications can cause temporary eye irritation and sensitivity to light. Additionally, both medications contain benzalkonium chloride, which can damage contact lenses, so you should avoid wearing contacts while using them. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic.
