erythromycin ophthalmic Health Article

Generic name(s):

erythromycin ophthalmic

Brand name(s):

Ilotycin, Roymicin

What is the most important information I should know about erythromycin ophthalmic?

Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor if you should wear them during treatment. After applying this medication, wait at least 15 minutes before inserting contact lenses, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What is erythromycin ophthalmic?

Erythromycin ophthalmic is an antibiotic.

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

Erythromycin ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not use erythromycin ophthalmic?

Do not use erythromycin ophthalmic if you have a viral or fungal infection in your eye. It is used to treat infections caused by bacteria only. Erythromycin ophthalmic is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not use erythromycin ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether erythromycin ophthalmic passes into breast milk. Do not use erythromycin ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use erythromycin ophthalmic?

Use erythromycin ophthalmic eye ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before using the eye ointment.

To apply the ointment:

• Hold the tube in your hand for a few minutes to warm it up so that the ointment comes out easily. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down gently on your lower eyelid. Apply a thin film of the ointment into your lower eyelid. Close your eye and roll your eyeball around in all directions for 1 to 2 minutes. If you are applying another eye medication, allow at least 10 minutes before the next application.

Do not touch the tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye. Store erythromycin ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube properly capped.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect an overdose, wash the eye with water and call an emergency room or poison control center near you. If the ointment has been ingested, drink plenty of fluid and call an emergency center for advice.

What should I avoid while using erythromycin ophthalmic?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Erythromycin ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.

If you wear contact lenses, ask your doctor if you should wear them during treatment. After applying this medication, wait at least 15 minutes before inserting contact lenses, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Do not use other eye drops or medications during treatment with erythromycin ophthalmic unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of erythromycin ophthalmic?

Serious side effects are not expected to occur during treatment with this medication.

Commonly, some eye burning, stinging, irritation, itching, redness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light may occur. Continue to use erythromycin ophthalmic and talk to your doctor about any side effects that you experience.