Sometimes, when you are in the hospital due to surgery or some other medical condition, you have to have a catheter inserted. Although this is often necessary, there is a higher chance that germs will enter the bladder through this catheter and cause infections. So, today we are going to talk about a special treatment that can prevent such infections.
What is Neomycin and Polymyxin B Bladder Irrigation?
Simply put, this is a procedure that cleans and disinfects the inside of your bladder. More specifically, it is an irrigation or wash of the bladder. It uses a combination of two antibiotics. These are Neomycin (an aminoglycoside antibiotic) and Polymyxin B (a polymyxin).
The important thing is that this treatment is not given to treat an existing urinary tract infection. It is given to prevent infections . It is often used to prevent germs from entering the urinary tract, especially in patients with urinary catheters.
How is this treatment given?
This is not something you can do at home. This treatment is usually given in a hospital, by a doctor or nursing staff.
Imagine that through a catheter placed in your bladder, this antibiotic-containing fluid is continuously pumped into your bladder. Then, the fluid is thoroughly rinsed inside the bladder and then drained back out through another tube. This process is called 'continuous irrigation' because it continues. This reduces the chance of germs growing inside the bladder.
Very rarely, in some special cases, your doctor may give you specific instructions on how to perform this treatment at home. But that is only in the most exceptional cases.
Is this suitable for young children?
Yes, this treatment can be given to children if necessary. However, it requires special care. The dosage and method of administration vary depending on the child's weight, age, and health condition, so it is decided by a pediatrician.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting treatment
To ensure that this treatment is given to you safely, it is essential that the doctor knows the full details of your health condition. Be sure to mention these things in particular.
- Other illnesses you have:
- Kidney disease: The kidneys are like the filters of our body. These antibiotics, even in small amounts, can affect the kidneys. So if you have any kidney problems, it is important to let your doctor know.
- Other bladder problems: If you have any other bladder problems, tell us about them as well.
- Allergies: This is very important. If you have ever had an allergy to Neomycin , Polymyxin B , or other aminoglycoside antibiotics, you should tell your doctor. Also, if you have any allergies to any other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives, tell them all.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, tell your doctor before starting treatment.
What are the expected side effects?
Like any medication, this treatment can cause some side effects. However, because this medication only goes directly to the bladder and is very poorly absorbed into the bloodstream, the risk of serious side effects is low. However, it is important to be aware of any symptoms that may occur.
If you experience any of the symptoms listed below, tell your doctor or nurse immediately .
| Side effect | How you might feel |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Inflammation of the urinary system | Burning, stinging, or discomfort in the bladder or urethra. |
| Changes in urination | Sudden decrease in urine output, change in urine color (e.g. turning reddish). |
| Hearing loss | This is a very rare occurrence. A feeling of hearing loss, or hearing a ringing sound in the ears (tinnitus). |
| Muscle weakness | Sudden weakness or a feeling of lifelessness in the muscles of the body. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned on this list, never hesitate to inform your medical team about them.
What to do if you take too much medicine (overdose)?
Since this treatment is administered under the supervision of hospital staff, the chance of an overdose is very low. However, if you suspect that this has happened, there are two things you should do immediately.
1. Call the National Poison Information Centre located at the Colombo National Hospital .
2. Go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .
Are there any problems with other medications?
Because this treatment is administered directly into the bladder and the amount absorbed into the bloodstream is very low, there is little chance of interactions with other medications you are taking.
However, the best and safest thing to do is to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking. This includes not only Western medications, but also Ayurvedic or traditional medicines, vitamins, herbal products, or even any dietary supplements you are taking.
Take-Home Message
- Bladder irrigation with Neomycin and Polymyxin B is a treatment given to patients with urinary catheters to prevent urinary tract infections.
- This treatment is usually performed in a hospital, under medical supervision.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor fully about your allergies, kidney disease, and all other medications you are taking.
- If you experience any unusual symptoms during treatment, such as skin rashes, urinary tract infections, or hearing loss, notify the medical staff immediately.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this treatment, never be afraid to ask your doctor.
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