Erythromycin antibiotic is used to treat infections of the eye. They also may be used to prevent certain eye infections in newborn babies, such as neonatal conjunctivitis and ophthalmia neonatorum.

Erythromycin eye ointment is available only with your doctor's prescription.

To use Erythromycin eye ointment:

First, wash your hands. Tilt the head back and, pressing your finger gently on the skin just beneath the lower eyelid, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to make a space. Squeeze a thin strip of ointment into this space. A 1-cm (approximately 1/3-inch) strip of ointment is usually enough unless your doctor has told you to use a different amount.

Let go of the eyelid and gently close the eyes. Keep the eyes closed for 1 or 2 minutes to allow the medicine to come into contact with the infection.
To keep the medicine germ-free, do not touch the applicator tip on any surface (including the eye). After using the erythromycin eye ointment, wipe the tip with a clean tissue and keep the tube tightly closed.

To help clear up your infection completely, keep using this medicine for the full time of treatment, even if your symptoms begin to clear up after a few days. Do not miss any doses. If you stop using this medicine too soon, your symptoms may return.

Before using erythromycin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, other macrolide antibiotics or any other allergies and your medical history, especially of: contact lens use.

After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity requiring clear vision until you can safely perform such activities.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Erythromycin eye ointment may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

Redness, itching, stinging or burning of the eye

Erythromycin eye ointment may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.

Will Erythromycin eye ointment cure pink eye?

Erythromycin eye ointment is a good treatment for pink eye. If you have an eye infection, it's best to get it diagnosed by a healthcare professional to get the right treatment.

What happens if you miss a dose of Erythromycin eye ointment?

Use Erythromycin eye ointment as soon as possible, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if you overdose on Erythromycin eye ointment?

Seek emergency medical attention.

What should you avoid while using Erythromycin eye ointment?

Erythromycin eye ointment may cause blurred vision and may impair your reactions. Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you.