Erythromycin ophthalmic Uses, Side Effects & Warnings (2024)

Generic name: erythromycin ophthalmic [e-RITH-row-MYE-sin-off-THAL-mik]
Brand names: Eyemycin, Ilotycin, Roymicin
Dosage form: ophthalmic ointment (0.5%)
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 21, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is erythromycin ophthalmic?

Erythromycin is an antibiotic that fights bacteria.

Erythromycin ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes.

Erythromycin ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Erythromycin ophthalmic side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Erythromycin ophthalmic may cause serious side effects. Stop using erythromycin ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe burning, stinging, or irritation after using erythromycin ophthalmic; or

• signs of eye infection--pain, swelling, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage, eyes more sensitive to light.

Common side effects of erythromycin ophthalmic may include:

• eye redness; or

• mild eye irritation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use erythromycin ophthalmic if you are allergic to erythromycin.

• a viral or fungal infection in your eye.

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.

How should I use erythromycin ophthalmic?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To apply the ointment:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the ointment tube with the tip pointing toward this pocket. Look up and away from the tip.

• Squeeze out a ribbon of ointment into the lower eyelid pocket without touching the tip of the tube to your eye. Blink your eye gently and then keep it closed for 1 or 2 minutes.

• Use a tissue to wipe excess ointment from your eyelashes.

• After opening your eyes, you may have blurred vision for a short time. Avoid driving or doing anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.

Do not touch the tip of the ointment tube or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated tube tip can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Erythromycin ophthalmic will not treat a viral or fungal eye infection.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, 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 I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using erythromycin ophthalmic?

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

Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect erythromycin ophthalmic?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circ*mstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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