Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 7/3/2024
Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription
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.