Combination antibiotic and anti-inflammatory (steroid)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination medicine containing three active ingredients: hydrocortisone (a steroid that reduces swelling and inflammation), oxytetracycline (an antibiotic that kills bacteria), and polymyxin B (another antibiotic that fights bacteria). Together, they treat eye and ear infections while reducing pain and swelling.
Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis (oxytetracycline and polymyxin B) and disrupts cell membrane integrity (polymyxin B), while hydrocortisone suppresses inflammatory response by binding glucocorticoid receptors, reducing cytokine production and local tissue edema in ocular and otic infections.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Is Hydrocortisone; safe to take with another drug?
Check with multiple drugs →Explore this drug
Shake the bottle well before use. For eye infections, put 1-2 drops into the affected eye 4-6 times a day, or as your doctor directs. For ear infections, put 2-3 drops into the affected ear 3-4 times a day. Tilt your head to the side and keep it tilted for a minute or two after putting the drops in. Do not let the tip of the bottle touch your eye, ear, or fingers.
If you forget a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up to make up for the missed dose.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Complete the full course of treatment even if your eye or ear feels better — stopping early can allow the infection to come back stronger. Buy only from reputable pharmacies and check for the brand name Oxycortril-B to avoid fake products. Do not share your eye or ear drops with anyone else, as this can spread infection.
Do not use other eye or ear drops at the same time without asking your doctor — wait at least 5-10 minutes between different drops. If you are using any other steroid-containing eye or ear medicine, tell your doctor as using them together can increase side effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Hydrocortisone; with your other drugs?
Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically tells you to, as the steroid and antibiotic components may pose risks to the baby.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the reach of children. Discard any remaining suspension 4 weeks after opening.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.