Can tobramycin eye drops be used in the ear?

Tobramycin eye drops must not be used in the ears. Ear irrigation should be performed using a specialized ear-cleaning solution under the guidance of a pharmacist to avoid discomfort. This medication contains two active ingredients: tobramycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic with known ototoxic and nephrotoxic potential; and dexamethasone, a glucocorticoid. Although tobramycin–dexamethasone eye drops are intended for topical ocular use, tobramycin’s ototoxicity contraindicates its use in the ears. Therefore, tobramycin–dexamethasone solution is not recommended for otic (ear) administration.