Zylet and Tobradex

[Whitesmith]

-Is zylet offered in ointment form?
-is tobradex ointment applied to the eyelids less likely to raise IOP than an eyedrop?

thanks

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Not so sure about tacrolimus.  Look at the law offices looking for people treated with tacrolimus creams.  Still some concern out there about serious side effects.  Don't forsee approval anytime soon in U.S.
As a side note, have your doctor look for demodex follicularis.  Some research indicates that they can worsen lid margin disease.
MJK MD

[Whitesmith]

I mean something that is effective in the long term. It's hard to perform my job or other daily tasks when my eyelids are so inflamed. I guess steroids are the only option until they develop something better. Is Tacrolimus a promising nonsteroidal option?

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

There is no permanant treatment.  It is by definition a chronic problem.

MJK MD

[Whitesmith]

My opth has diagnosed me with blepharitis, I use sterilid w/ compresses and take flaxseed oil, and I also use preservative free eyedrops for moisture. However nothing has worked to my satisfaction besides tobradex which I've used for about a year and half- my eyelid inflammation is pretty severe even with the other treatments, however w/ tobradex my symptoms are almost nonexistent. We've exhausted most options so I've resigned myself to using tobradex w/my opth monitoring IOP levels, and I also use the other treatments. My opth seems okay with tobradex long term, but I wish had the peace of mind of knowing that I had a permanent treatment.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

THere is no Zylet ointment that I know of.  Even Zylet or Lotemax can affect the IOP significantly in some patients.  Tobradex ointment will have basically the same effect on IOP as Tobradex drop.  I might have other suggestions if I had more info about your case.

Michael Kutryb, MD