Need a Tobradex Prescription? Here's How to Find the Right Doctor

If you've been told you need Tobradex (Tobramycin/Dexamethasone) — or you suspect you have an eye infection with inflammation — the first step is finding the right doctor. Unlike many prescriptions you can get from your primary care physician, Tobradex is most commonly prescribed by eye care specialists.

This guide walks you through exactly which doctors can prescribe Tobradex, how to find one near you, and what to expect during your visit.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Tobradex?

Tobradex is a combination antibiotic and steroid eye drop used for bacterial eye infections with inflammation. Because it's an ophthalmic medication, it's typically prescribed by:

• Ophthalmologists — Medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who specialize in eye diseases and surgery. They're the most common prescribers of Tobradex, especially after eye surgery or for complex infections.
• Optometrists — Doctors of Optometry (ODs) who can diagnose and treat many eye conditions. In all 50 states, optometrists can prescribe Tobradex.
• Primary care physicians — Family doctors and internists can prescribe Tobradex for straightforward bacterial conjunctivitis, though they may refer you to a specialist for more serious conditions.
• Emergency medicine doctors — If you go to the ER or urgent care with a severe eye infection, the treating physician can prescribe Tobradex.
• Pediatricians — For children aged 2 months and older, pediatricians may prescribe Tobradex for eye infections.

For most people, an ophthalmologist or optometrist is the best starting point. They have the equipment — like slit lamps and tonometers — to properly diagnose your condition and monitor for side effects like increased eye pressure.

How to Find an Eye Doctor Near You

Here are the most reliable ways to find a provider who can prescribe Tobradex:

1. Use Your Insurance Directory

If you have health insurance or a vision plan, start with your plan's provider directory. This ensures you'll see an in-network doctor and pay the lowest out-of-pocket cost.

• Log into your insurance company's website or app
• Search for "ophthalmologist" or "optometrist" in your area
• Filter by distance, availability, and patient ratings
• Call ahead to confirm they're accepting new patients

2. Book Through Zocdoc or Similar Platforms

Zocdoc, Healthgrades, and similar platforms let you search for eye doctors, see real patient reviews, and book appointments online — often for the same day or next day.

• Filter by insurance accepted, availability, and specialty
• Look for providers with experience treating eye infections
• Read reviews specifically mentioning post-surgical care or infection treatment

3. Get a Referral From Your Primary Care Doctor

If you already have a relationship with a primary care physician, they can refer you to a trusted ophthalmologist or optometrist. Some insurance plans (like HMOs) require a referral before you can see a specialist.

4. Consider Urgent Care for Simple Cases

If your eye infection is straightforward — redness, discharge, mild swelling — many urgent care centers can diagnose bacterial conjunctivitis and prescribe Tobradex on the spot. This can be faster than waiting for an eye doctor appointment.

5. What About Telehealth?

For most eye conditions requiring Tobradex, telehealth has limitations. Doctors typically need to physically examine your eye with specialized equipment to confirm a bacterial infection and rule out viral or fungal causes. However, if you've been previously diagnosed and need a refill, some providers may offer a telehealth follow-up.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

When you visit a doctor for an eye infection, here's what typically happens:

1. Medical history review — The doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they started, any recent eye surgery, contact lens use, and current medications.
2. Eye examination — Using a slit lamp (a special microscope), the doctor will examine your cornea, conjunctiva, and other eye structures for signs of infection and inflammation.
3. Possible culture — For severe or recurrent infections, the doctor may take a swab to identify the specific bacteria involved.
4. Pressure check — An intraocular pressure measurement is important, especially since the steroid component in Tobradex can raise eye pressure with prolonged use.
5. Prescription and instructions — If Tobradex is appropriate, the doctor will write your prescription and explain how to use the drops correctly.

The entire appointment usually takes 20 to 40 minutes. Make sure to mention all medications you're currently taking, including other eye drops, to avoid potential drug interactions.

After You Get Your Prescription

Once you have your Tobradex prescription in hand, you'll need to fill it at a pharmacy. A few things to keep in mind:

• Brand vs. generic — Generic Tobramycin/Dexamethasone eye drops are available and cost significantly less ($28–$55 with a discount card vs. $200–$350 for brand-name Tobradex). Ask your doctor if generic is appropriate for you.
• Check stock first — Some pharmacies may not have Tobradex or its generic in stock. Use Medfinder to check pharmacy availability before making the trip.
• Save money — If cost is a concern, look into coupons and discount programs that can reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
• Follow-up visits — Your doctor will likely want to see you again in 1–2 weeks to check that the infection is clearing and monitor your eye pressure.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right doctor for a Tobradex prescription doesn't have to be complicated. Start with your insurance directory or a booking platform like Zocdoc, aim for an ophthalmologist or optometrist when possible, and don't forget to check pharmacy stock before heading out. The sooner you get treatment, the sooner your eye infection can heal.

Ready to fill your prescription? Use Medfinder to find Tobradex in stock at a pharmacy near you.