Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on April 21, 2025
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Ophthalmic erythromycin is a prescription medication used to treat bacterial infections of the eye. It is also sometimes used to prevent eye infections in newborn babies. It is administered as an ointment directly to the eye. Erythromycin is an antibiotic medication. It is only effective against bacterial infections. It is ineffective as a treatment for viral or fungal infections or infections caused by any other pathogen.
Healthcare providers prescribe ophthalmic erythromycin to treat bacterial eye infections. It is also prescribed to prevent eye infections in some newborn babies.
It is important to only use antibiotics like erythromycin when prescribed, as taking antibiotics when they are unnecessary increases the incidence of antibiotic-resistant infections. Remember that antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections and will not work against viral infections like the common cold or flu.
Erythromycin is classified as a macrolide antibiotic, meaning that it is indicated for use against bacterial infections in various areas of the body. Ophthalmic erythromycin is specifically used to treat bacterial eye infections. These drugs work by preventing certain proteins in bacteria cells from synthesizing. This action essentially kills harmful bacteria cells and keeps infection from growing.
Because erythromycin is an antibiotic, it is ineffective against viral, parasitic, and fungal infections.
Ophthalmic erythromycin can be used in the form of an eye ointment:
The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated, its severity, and your response to the medication.
Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and schedule. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.
The effectiveness of ophthalmic erythromycin and the time it takes to notice improvement can vary among individuals. You will usually notice symptom relief within a few days of starting the medication, but it may take the full course of treatment to clear the infection completely.
Continue using ophthalmic erythromycin as prescribed even if you start feeling better. Do not abruptly stop the medication, as it may lead to a recurrence of the infection.
While ophthalmic erythromycin is primarily used for treating bacterial eye infections, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe it off-label for conditions.
Discuss any alternative uses of ophthalmic erythromycin with your healthcare provider.
Ophthalmic erythromycin is available in the following dosage forms:
Generic versions of ophthalmic erythromycin are available, providing cost-effective treatment options.
Ophthalmic erythromycin is a prescription medication. You will need a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.
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Ophthalmic erythromycin is available in the following form:
The typical starting dose of ophthalmic erythromycin varies depending on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and administration.
For bacterial eye infections:
Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate dose based on your medical history, current medications, and response to the medication.
Ophthalmic erythromycin should be used exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.
If you have any questions about your dosage or need adjustments, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. If you want to talk to a provider right away, consider scheduling an online doctor appointment through a platform like Sesame.
If you miss a dose of ophthalmic erythromycin, apply it as soon as you remember unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the effectiveness of ophthalmic erythromycin in managing your condition.
Continue using ophthalmic erythromycin as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting your provider, as it may lead to a recurrence of symptoms or other complications.
Complete the full course of treatment as directed to minimize the risk of relapse.
If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and recommendations.
Store ophthalmic erythromycin according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Keep it at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Ensure the container is tightly closed and out of reach of children.
Do not use expired medication or medications that appear damaged or discolored. If you have any questions about storage, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.
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The use of ophthalmic erythromycin can lead to various side effects in some individuals.
Common mild side effects of ophthalmic erythromycin use include:
Other side effects may occur. Tell your healthcare provider if symptoms become severe or do not disappear after a few days.
Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with ophthalmic erythromycin. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with ophthalmic erythromycin.
Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:
You should also mention medical conditions such as:
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using ophthalmic erythromycin to assess potential risks and benefits.
Take ophthalmic erythromycin exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
Ophthalmic erythromycin should be applied to the affected eye(s) as directed. To prevent contamination, wash your hands before and after applying the ointment. Also, avoid touching the tip of the ointment tube to any surface, including your eye.
Avoid wearing contact lenses while using erythromycin unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for optimal effectiveness.
Ophthalmic erythromycin should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, and out of the reach of children.
In case of an ophthalmic erythromycin overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe eye irritation, redness, or swelling. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.