How is erythromycin ophthalmic ointment used to treat eye infections. What are the proper steps for applying erythromycin eye ointment. What precautions should be taken when using this medication.

Understanding Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment

Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is a macrolide antibiotic used to treat bacterial eye infections and prevent them in newborn babies. This medication works by eliminating bacteria that cause infections in the eye. It’s essential to understand its proper use to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.

What is Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment?

Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is a topical medication specifically formulated for use in the eyes. It belongs to the macrolide antibiotic class, which is known for its effectiveness against a wide range of bacteria. The ointment form allows for prolonged contact with the eye surface, enhancing its therapeutic effects.

When is Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment Prescribed?

This medication is primarily prescribed in two scenarios:

• To treat existing bacterial eye infections in patients of various ages
• As a preventive measure against bacterial eye infections in newborn babies, typically applied once in the hospital shortly after birth

Its ability to combat a broad spectrum of bacteria makes it a valuable tool in ophthalmic care.

Proper Application Technique for Erythromycin Eye Ointment

Applying eye ointment correctly is crucial for its effectiveness and to minimize potential side effects. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply erythromycin ophthalmic ointment:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent introducing additional bacteria to your eyes.
2. Use a mirror or ask someone to help you apply the ointment.
3. Tilt your head slightly forward.
4. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a pocket.
5. Hold the tube close to your eye without touching it to maintain sterility.
6. Squeeze a small amount (about 1 cm or 1/2 inch) of ointment into the pocket formed by your lower eyelid.
7. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1-2 minutes to allow the medication to spread and be absorbed.
8. Use a clean tissue to wipe away any excess ointment from your eyelids or lashes.
9. Wash your hands again after application.

Remember, it’s important not to touch the tip of the tube to your eye or any other surface to keep the ointment clean and prevent contamination.

Dosage and Frequency of Use

The dosage and frequency of erythromycin ophthalmic ointment application can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the prescribing doctor’s instructions. However, there are some general guidelines to follow:

For Eye Infections

Erythromycin eye ointment is typically applied up to six times a day for active eye infections. The exact frequency should be determined by your healthcare provider based on the severity and type of infection.

For Newborn Infection Prevention

In newborns, erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is usually applied once in the hospital soon after delivery. This single application is generally sufficient for preventing potential eye infections in newborns.

It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. This helps ensure the infection is fully cleared and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Precautions and Special Considerations

While erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is generally safe when used as directed, there are several precautions and special considerations to keep in mind:

Allergies and Interactions

Before using erythromycin eye ointment, inform your doctor if you:

• Are allergic to erythromycin or any other medications
• Are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, including other eye medications
• Use vitamins, nutritional supplements, or herbal products

This information helps prevent potential allergic reactions or drug interactions.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the use of erythromycin ophthalmic ointment with your doctor. While it’s generally considered safe, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits against any risks.

Contact Lens Use

If you wear contact lenses, especially soft lenses, you should not wear them while you have an eye infection or while using erythromycin eye ointment. Wait until your doctor advises that it’s safe to resume wearing your lenses.

Potential Side Effects and When to Seek Medical Attention

Like all medications, erythromycin ophthalmic ointment can cause side effects in some individuals. It’s important to be aware of these potential effects and know when to seek medical attention.

Common Side Effects

Some common side effects that may occur with the use of erythromycin eye ointment include:

• Mild redness of the eye
• Temporary burning or stinging sensation
• Itching in or around the eye
• Blurred vision shortly after application

These effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While rare, more serious side effects can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe eye pain or irritation
• Signs of an allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; hives)
• Worsening of your eye infection symptoms
• New or unexplained eye problems

Prompt medical attention in these cases can prevent potential complications.

Storage and Handling of Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment

Proper storage and handling of erythromycin eye ointment are crucial for maintaining its effectiveness and preventing contamination. Here are some important guidelines to follow:

Storage Conditions

Store erythromycin ophthalmic ointment:

• At room temperature, typically between 15-30°C (59-86°F)
• Away from direct sunlight and heat
• Out of reach of children and pets

Avoid storing the medication in the bathroom, as humidity can affect its stability.

Handling and Disposal

To ensure safe handling and disposal:

• Always replace the cap tightly after each use
• Do not use the ointment if it changes color or becomes cloudy
• Discard any unused medication after the expiration date
• Follow local guidelines for proper disposal of medications

Proper handling and disposal help prevent accidental ingestion and environmental contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions About Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment

Here are some common questions and answers about erythromycin eye ointment:

How long does it take for erythromycin eye ointment to work?

While individual responses may vary, many patients start to see improvement in their symptoms within a few days of starting treatment. However, it’s important to complete the full course of medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve early.

Can erythromycin eye ointment be used for viral eye infections?

No, erythromycin is an antibiotic that is only effective against bacterial infections. It will not treat viral eye infections. Your doctor will determine the cause of your eye infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Is it safe to use erythromycin eye ointment long-term?

Erythromycin eye ointment is typically prescribed for short-term use to treat acute bacterial eye infections. Long-term use should only be under the direct supervision of an eye care professional, as prolonged use may lead to antibiotic resistance or other complications.

Can I use erythromycin eye ointment if I’m allergic to other antibiotics?

If you have known allergies to other antibiotics, it’s crucial to inform your doctor before using erythromycin eye ointment. While allergies to one type of antibiotic don’t necessarily mean you’ll be allergic to erythromycin, your doctor will need to assess the risk and potentially recommend alternative treatments if necessary.

Understanding how to properly use erythromycin ophthalmic ointment, its potential side effects, and important precautions can help ensure safe and effective treatment of bacterial eye infections. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about any aspect of your treatment.

Erythromycin Ophthalmic: MedlinePlus Drug Information

pronounced as (e rith” roe mye’ sin)

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Ophthalmic erythromycin is used to treat bacterial infections of the eye. This medication is also used to prevent bacterial infections of the eye in newborn babies. Erythromycin is in a class of medications called macrolide antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria that cause infections.

Ophthalmic erythromycin comes as an ointment to apply to the eyes. It is usually applied up to six times a day for eye infections. Ophthalmic erythromycin is usually applied one time in the hospital soon after delivery to prevent eye infections in newborn babies. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use erythromycin eye ointment exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

You should expect your symptoms to improve during your treatment. Call your doctor if your symptoms get worse or do not go away, or if you develop other problems with your eyes during your treatment.

To use the eye ointment, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Use a mirror or have someone else apply the ointment.
3. Avoid touching the tip of the tube against your eye or anything else. The ointment must be kept clean.
4. Tilt your head forward slightly.
5. Holding the tube between your thumb and index finger, place the tube as near as possible to your eyelid without touching it.
6. Brace the remaining fingers of that hand against your cheek or nose.
7. With the index finger of your other hand, pull the lower lid of your eye down to form a pocket.
8. Place a small amount of ointment into the pocket made by the lower lid and the eye. A 1-centimeter (about 1/2-inch) strip of ointment usually is enough unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
9. Look downward, then gently close your eyes and keep them closed for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the medication to be absorbed.
10. Replace and tighten the cap right away.
11. Wipe off any excess ointment from your eyelids and lashes with a clean tissue. Do not rub your eyes, even if your vision is blurry. Wash your hands again.

Use ophthalmic erythromycin until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. If you stop using ophthalmic erythromycin too soon, your infection may not be completely cured and the bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Before using erythromycin eye ointment,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to erythromycin, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in erythromycin eye ointment. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any other eye medications.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using erythromycin eye ointment, call your doctor.
• you should know that your vision may be blurry for a short amount of time after using the eye ointment. Wait until you can see normally before you drive or do other activities that require good vision.
• tell your doctor if you wear soft contact lenses. You should not wear contact lenses if you have an eye infection.

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply extra ointment to make up for a missed dose.

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.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www. fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Do not freeze erythromycin eye ointment.

Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA’s Safe Disposal of Medicines website (http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p) for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program.

It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org

In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can’t be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.

• Ilotycin^® Opthalmic^¶
• Romycin^® Ophthalmic

^¶ This branded product is no longer on the market. Generic alternatives may be available.

Last Revised – 01/15/2017

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Erythromycin ophthalmic Uses, Side Effects & Warnings

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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 19, 2022. 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.

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.

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.

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 this medicine; 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:

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.

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.

More about erythromycin ophthalmic

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• Drug class: ophthalmic anti-infectives
• Breastfeeding
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Patient resources

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Other brands

Ilotycin, Eyemycin, Roymicin

Professional resources

• Prescribing Information

Related treatment guides

• Conjunctivitis, Bacterial

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 circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 7.01.

Arpimed

Dosage form

Ointment for external use.

Composition

Each gram contains:

active 011 substances o : erythromycin – 10 mg;

auxiliary substances : liquid paraffin, propylparaben, white petrolatum, ethanol

Pharmacological and ATC code

Macrolide antibiotic for external use. ATX code – D10AF02.

Pharmacological action

Macrolide antibiotic with a bacteriostatic effect. When applied externally, it has an anti-acne effect due to the bacteriostatic effect on the microorganisms that cause acne: Propionibacterium acnes.

Reversibly binds to the 50S subunit of ribosomes, which disrupts the formation of peptide bonds between amino acid molecules and blocks the synthesis of proteins in microorganisms (does not affect the synthesis of nucleic acids).

When used in high doses, depending on the type of pathogen, it may also exhibit a bactericidal effect.

Pharmacokinetics

Only a small part of erythromycin undergoes systemic absorption, which is subsequently excreted from the body in the urine.

Indications for use

• Treatment of acne vulgaris (mainly papular and pustular).
• Purulent-inflammatory diseases of the skin.

Application

The ointment is applied no more than 2 times a day on previously cleaned affected skin areas. Treatment is continued until clinical improvement, on average 1-3 months.

Adverse reactions

Local reactions : sometimes there may be a burning sensation, irritation, dryness of the skin at the site of application of the drug. As a rule, these phenomena are mild and do not require discontinuation of the drug and / or symptomatic therapy

Allergic reactions : generalized urticaria, irritation, redness, epidermal desquamation, skin erythema, eye irritation.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to erythromycin and other macrolides.

Pregnancy and lactation

The use of the drug during pregnancy and lactation is undesirable and is possible only if the intended benefit outweighs the risk of side effects.

Special instructions

Avoid getting the drug on the mucous membranes and sensitive areas of the skin (eyelids, neck, supraclavicular cavity).

Use of another topical anti-acne preparation is possible no earlier than one hour later.

If generalized urticaria occurs, treatment should be discontinued and systemic corticosteroids given.

Wash hands thoroughly after each use.

In case of infection, the drug should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.

When using the drug, the development of cross-resistance to other antibiotics of the macrolide group, lincomycin, clindamycin is possible.

Propionibacterium strains are becoming more resistant to antibiotics. To prevent the development of resistance during treatment with Erythromycin topical ointment, the patient should not use other oral antibiotics. The patient should not use the drug for a longer time than necessary, however, treatment should continue for at least 6 months.

Pediatric use: The safety and efficacy of erythromycin ointment in pediatric use has not been established.

Overdose

Accidental overdose is unlikely due to the nature of the local application of the drug.

Drug Interactions

Co-administration of erythromycin with drugs that cause epidermal desquamation (eg, benzoyl peroxide, tretinoin, resorcinol, salicylic acid, sulfur) may increase side effects.

Concomitant use of another topical antibiotic is contraindicated.

Erythromycin should not be used simultaneously with drugs that cause skin desquamation, as well as with cosmetic and hygiene products that cause dryness and irritation of the skin.

Erythromycin should not be co-administered with clindamycin as they bind competitively to the 50S subunit of the ribosome.

Product form

1% ointment for external use in aluminum tubes of 20 and 25 g, together with a leaflet in a cardboard pack.

Shelf life

3 years. Do not use after the expiration date.

Storage conditions

Keep out of the reach of children, dry, dark place at a temperature not exceeding 15 ⁰ C.

instructions for use, price, analogues, composition, indications

1 g of ointment contains:

Active substance: erythromycin – 0.01 g

Excipients: anhydrous lanolin, sodium metabisulphite, petroleum jelly.

Erythromycin belongs to the group of macrolide antibiotics. When applied topically, it has an antibacterial effect.

Excreted by the intestines and kidneys.

Treatment of superficial eye infections caused by microorganisms susceptible to erythromycin.

Prevention of ophthalmia in newborns (neonatal conjunctivitis) caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae (neonatal gonococcal conjunctivitis) or Chlamydia trachomatis.

The efficacy of erythromycin in the prevention of ophthalmia caused by penicillinase-producing N. gonorrhoeae has not been established.

Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, severe violations of the liver and kidneys, history of jaundice.

With care

Old age, impaired liver and kidney function.

Excess ointment on the eyes can be removed with warm water. Do not apply ointment until the next application.

Taking into account the characteristics of this medicinal product, no toxic effects are expected from its use in ophthalmology, as well as from accidental ingestion of the contents of the tube.

In the prevention of neonatal ophthalmia, erythromycin ophthalmic ointment should not be washed out of the eye.

In children whose mothers have clinically pronounced gonorrhea, erythromycin, as an ophthalmic drug, is used simultaneously with an aqueous solution of penicillin G for parenteral use.

The preparation contains lanolin, which may cause local skin reactions (eg contact dermatitis).

When using this drug for a long time or in large quantities, the development of other, non-susceptible microorganisms, including fungi, is possible. Consult your physician if symptoms worsen or recur.

During an eye infection, the use of contact lenses (hard or soft) is not recommended.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, ask your doctor before taking this medicine. The use of this drug during pregnancy is not recommended.

During lactation, it is necessary to either stop treatment or suspend breastfeeding, based on the benefits of breastfeeding for the child and the benefits of treatment for the mother.

Patients who temporarily lose their vision after the application are not recommended to drive a vehicle or work with complex machinery, machines or any other complex equipment that requires clarity of vision immediately after using the drug.

Temporary visual disturbances after instillation of the ointment into the conjunctival sac may affect the ability to drive vehicles or work with other mechanisms. If these effects occur, the patient should wait until vision is clear before driving or operating machinery.

No clinically significant interactions have been described.

It is known that erythromycin is incompatible with lincomycin, clindamycin and chloramphenicol (antagonism).

Reduces the bactericidal effect of beta-lactam antibiotics (penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems).

Pharmaceutically incompatible with aminoglycosides. When used with glucocorticosteroids, it leads to an increase in their effect.

If you are taking any other medicines, be sure to tell your doctor!

locally. For adults, including elderly patients, and children, a strip of ointment 0.5-1 cm long is placed behind the lower eyelid from 1 to 6 times a day, depending on the severity of the infection.

The duration of treatment for neonatal ophthalmia, bacterial conjunctivitis, blepharitis, blepharoconjunctivitis, meibomitis, with complex therapy of keratitis depends on the form and severity of the disease, but should not exceed 14 days.

In the treatment of trachoma – 4-5 times a day, the treatment should be combined with the opening of the follicles. When the inflammatory process subsides, the drug is used 2-3 times a day. The duration of treatment for trachoma is up to 4 months.

In the treatment of chlamydial conjunctivitis, the ointment is placed in the conjunctival sac 4-5 times a day, the duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease, up to 3 months.

For the prevention of blennorrhea in newborns, a strip of ointment 0.5-1 cm long is placed behind the lower eyelid once.

Peculiarities of application in certain groups of patients

Use in hepatic and renal insufficiency

The safety and efficacy of this medicinal product in patients with hepatic or renal insufficiency have not been established.

Children

For the prevention of ophthalmia in newborns, the ointment is used once.

Elderly patients

There are no specific recommendations for use.

How to use

The ointment is placed in the conjunctival sac. With your head tilted back, lower the lower eyelid and apply 0.5-1 cm of ointment, looking up. Gently close your eyes and keep them closed for a few seconds.

If more than one ophthalmic agent is used, an interval of at least 5 minutes must be observed. Eye ointments should be administered last.

Do not touch the eye or any surface with the tip of the tube to avoid contamination of the contents of the tube.

Like all medicines, Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

The following adverse reactions were observed in the post-registration period of the use of the medicinal product, the frequency of which is unknown (cannot be estimated from the available data): hypersensitivity reactions, including urticaria, burning sensation, hyperemia, irritation of the mucous membrane of the eye, blurred vision.

Adverse reactions reported:

If you experience any adverse reactions, please consult your physician. This recommendation applies to any possible adverse reactions, including those not listed in the package insert. You can also report adverse reactions to the adverse drug reactions (actions) information database, including reports of drug failures. By reporting adverse reactions, you help to get more information about the safety of the drug.

At a temperature not higher than 25°C.