Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment

Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial eye infections and prevent infection in certain situations. It's one of the most commonly prescribed eye antibiotics and has an excellent safety profile.

How It Works

Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that:

• Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis
• Bacteriostatic (stops bacteria from multiplying)
• Effective against many common eye bacteria
• Also has anti-inflammatory properties

Common Uses

• Bacterial conjunctivitis
• Blepharitis (applied to lid margins)
• Corneal abrasion prophylaxis
• Newborn eye prophylaxis (prevents gonococcal and chlamydial infection)
• Mild bacterial eye infections
• Post-procedure prophylaxis

How to Use

For Eye Infections

• Dosing: Typically applied 2-4 times daily
• Technique: Pull down lower eyelid, apply thin ribbon of ointment
• Duration: Usually 7-10 days (complete full course)

For Blepharitis

• Application: Apply small amount to eyelid margins
• Timing: Often at bedtime
• Duration: As directed (may be longer for chronic conditions)

General Tips

• Wash hands before and after application
• Avoid touching tube tip to eye
• Vision will blur temporarily (ointment effect)
• Often best used at bedtime due to blur

What to Expect

• Temporary blurred vision after application
• Improvement in infection symptoms within days
• Complete full course even if feeling better

Side Effects

Common

• Blurred vision (temporary, from ointment)
• Minor eye irritation
• Redness

Rare

• Allergic reaction
• Worsening irritation
• Secondary infection (with prolonged use)

When to Contact Doctor

• No improvement after 2-3 days
• Worsening symptoms
• Signs of allergic reaction
• Significant pain or vision changes

Precautions

• Allergies: Don't use if allergic to erythromycin or macrolide antibiotics
• Complete the course: Even if symptoms improve
• Don't share: Eye medications shouldn't be shared
• Contact lenses: Generally don't wear while treating infection

Erythromycin vs. Other Options

Antibiotic	Form	Spectrum	Notes
Erythromycin	Ointment	Broad	Safe, long history
Tobramycin	Drops/ointment	Broad	Good gram-negative coverage
Fluoroquinolones	Drops	Broad	Stronger, often reserved
Bacitracin	Ointment	Narrow	Alternative for allergies

Special Situations

Newborn Prophylaxis

• Standard of care to prevent gonococcal ophthalmia
• Applied within 1 hour of birth
• Single application
• Very safe

Corneal Abrasion

• May be prescribed to prevent infection
• Often used at bedtime for comfort
• Protects healing cornea

Chronic Blepharitis

• Applied to lid margins
• May be used intermittently
• Part of comprehensive lid hygiene

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my vision blurry after using the ointment?

Ointment temporarily coats the eye surface, causing blur. This is normal and clears as the ointment absorbs. Many people prefer using ointment at bedtime for this reason.

How long until the infection clears up?

Most bacterial eye infections start improving within 2-3 days. Complete the full course (usually 7-10 days) even if symptoms resolve earlier.

Can I use erythromycin ointment for pink eye?

Only if prescribed by your doctor. Many cases of "pink eye" are viral, and antibiotics won't help viral infections. Let your doctor determine if antibiotic treatment is appropriate.

Can I wear contact lenses while using this?

Generally, you should not wear contact lenses while treating an eye infection. Ask your doctor when you can resume lens wear.

Is erythromycin safe for children?

Yes, erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is safe for all ages, including newborns. It's commonly used for newborn eye prophylaxis.

What if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose when you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Don't double up. Continue your regular schedule.