Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background: Acute and chronic superficial ocular inflammation of bacterial origin is a common problem characterized by irritation, itching, and burning of the eyelids. The present study was conducted to assess short-term bactericidal potential of a steroid-antibiotic combination versus steroid in the treatment of conjunctivitis. Materials & Methods: 68 patients of conjunctivitis of both genders were divided into 2 groups of 34 each. Group I patients were given combination of neomycin sulphate 3500 lU/mL, polymyxin-B sulphate 6000 lU/mL with dexamethasone 0.1% and group II were given 0.1% dexamethasone. The symptoms evaluated included foreign body sensation, lacrimation, photophobia, and itching. Results: Treatment in group I significantly reduced the incidence of Gram-positive and negative species by approximately 75%. Group II had none to minimal effects in eradicating Gram-positive bacteria. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). There was significant difference in reduction in clinical features in group I and II in respect to lacrimation, foreign body sensation, itching, photophobia, erythema, conjunctival discharge and bulbar conjunctiva hyperaemia from baseline to day 4. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Use of a fixed dose combination steroid-antibiotic product was more effective for bacterial control and therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of conjunctivitis.