Eye

Erythromycin eye ointment how to apply. Erythromycin Eye Ointment: Proper Application and Usage Guide

How is erythromycin eye ointment applied correctly. What are the common side effects of erythromycin ophthalmic ointment. When should you use erythromycin eye ointment. How long does it take for erythromycin eye ointment to work. What precautions should be taken when using erythromycin eye ointment.

Содержание

Understanding Erythromycin Eye Ointment: Purpose and Applications

Erythromycin eye ointment is a powerful tool in the fight against bacterial eye infections. This ophthalmic medication belongs to the macrolide antibiotic class and serves a dual purpose: treating existing bacterial eye infections and preventing them in newborn babies. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to eliminate bacteria responsible for causing infections.

The primary uses of erythromycin eye ointment include:

  • Treating various bacterial eye infections in adults and children
  • Preventing bacterial eye infections in newborns shortly after birth
  • Addressing other eye conditions as prescribed by healthcare professionals

Is erythromycin eye ointment suitable for all types of eye infections. While highly effective against bacterial infections, it’s important to note that this medication is not designed to treat viral or fungal eye infections. Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate treatment for your specific condition.

Proper Application Techniques for Erythromycin Eye Ointment

Applying eye ointment correctly is crucial for its effectiveness and your comfort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure proper application:

  1. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water
  2. Use a mirror or ask someone to help you apply the ointment
  3. Avoid touching the tube tip to your eye or any other surface
  4. Tilt your head slightly forward
  5. Hold the tube between your thumb and index finger
  6. Pull down your lower eyelid to create a pocket
  7. Squeeze a small amount (about 1 cm) of ointment into the pocket
  8. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1-2 minutes
  9. Wipe away any excess ointment with a clean tissue
  10. Replace the cap and wash your hands again

Can you apply erythromycin eye ointment while wearing contact lenses. It’s generally advised to remove contact lenses before applying the ointment and wait before reinserting them. If you have an active eye infection, avoid wearing contact lenses until the infection clears and your doctor approves their use.

Dosage and Treatment Duration for Optimal Results

The frequency of erythromycin eye ointment application can vary depending on the severity of the infection and your doctor’s recommendations. Typically, it’s applied up to six times a day for active eye infections. For newborns, a single application in the hospital shortly after birth is usually sufficient for prevention.

It’s crucial to follow your prescription label carefully and complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve. Stopping the medication prematurely may result in incomplete eradication of the infection and potentially lead to antibiotic resistance.

How long does it take for erythromycin eye ointment to show results. While individual responses may vary, many patients notice improvement within a few days of starting treatment. However, it’s essential to continue using the medication as prescribed to ensure complete resolution of the infection.

Factors Affecting Treatment Duration

  • Severity of the infection
  • Type of bacteria causing the infection
  • Patient’s overall health and immune response
  • Adherence to prescribed dosage and application instructions

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While erythromycin eye ointment is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

  • Temporary redness of the eye
  • Mild itching or stinging sensation
  • Burning feeling upon application
  • Blurred vision shortly after application

These side effects are usually mild and transient. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

Are there any serious side effects associated with erythromycin eye ointment. While rare, severe allergic reactions or persistent eye irritation may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as severe eye pain, vision changes, or signs of an allergic reaction like swelling or difficulty breathing.

Precautions and Considerations

Before using erythromycin eye ointment, inform your doctor about:

  • Any allergies to erythromycin or other medications
  • All current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding status
  • Any existing eye conditions or recent eye surgeries

Can erythromycin eye ointment be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. While generally considered safe, it’s crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or lactation.

Storage and Handling of Erythromycin Eye Ointment

Proper storage and handling of erythromycin eye ointment are essential to maintain its effectiveness and prevent contamination. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Do not use the ointment after its expiration date
  • Avoid sharing the medication with others, even if they have similar symptoms
  • Discard any remaining ointment after completing the prescribed course

How long can you keep an opened tube of erythromycin eye ointment. Once opened, it’s generally recommended to discard the tube after 28 days or as directed by your pharmacist, even if there’s remaining medication.

Interactions with Other Medications and Substances

While erythromycin eye ointment is applied topically, it’s still important to be aware of potential interactions with other medications or substances. Some considerations include:

  • Inform your doctor about all medications you’re currently taking
  • Be cautious when using other eye drops or ointments concurrently
  • Allow sufficient time between applications of different eye medications
  • Avoid using contact lenses during treatment unless approved by your doctor

Can erythromycin eye ointment interact with systemic medications. While topical application typically results in minimal systemic absorption, it’s always best to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re using to avoid potential interactions.

Timing of Multiple Eye Medications

If you’re prescribed multiple eye medications, proper timing of application is crucial:

  1. Wait at least 5 minutes between different eye drop medications
  2. Apply eye ointments last, as they can create a barrier affecting absorption of other medications
  3. Consult your pharmacist or doctor for specific instructions on timing multiple eye medications

Monitoring Progress and When to Seek Further Medical Attention

While using erythromycin eye ointment, it’s important to monitor your progress and be aware of signs that may indicate a need for further medical attention. Keep the following in mind:

  • Expect gradual improvement in symptoms over the course of treatment
  • Contact your doctor if symptoms worsen or fail to improve after a few days
  • Be alert for any new eye problems or changes in vision during treatment
  • Follow up with your healthcare provider as recommended to ensure complete resolution of the infection

When should you stop using erythromycin eye ointment and seek immediate medical care. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe eye pain, significant vision changes, signs of allergic reaction, or any other concerning symptoms that develop during treatment.

Signs of Improvement

Positive indicators that the treatment is working may include:

  • Reduction in eye redness and irritation
  • Decreased discharge or crusting around the eyes
  • Improved comfort and reduced sensation of foreign body in the eye
  • Gradual return to normal vision (if blurriness was a symptom)

Alternative Treatments and Complementary Care

While erythromycin eye ointment is effective for many bacterial eye infections, there may be situations where alternative treatments are necessary or complementary care is beneficial. Consider the following:

  • Other antibiotic eye medications for resistant bacteria or specific infections
  • Antiviral medications for viral eye infections
  • Warm compresses to relieve discomfort and promote healing
  • Artificial tears to alleviate dryness and irritation
  • Proper eye hygiene practices to prevent reinfection

Are there natural remedies that can be used alongside erythromycin eye ointment. While some natural remedies may provide symptomatic relief, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before combining any alternative treatments with prescribed medications.

Preventing Future Eye Infections

To reduce the risk of future eye infections, consider these preventive measures:

  1. Practice good hand hygiene, especially before touching your eyes
  2. Avoid sharing personal items like towels or makeup
  3. Replace eye makeup regularly and avoid sharing cosmetics
  4. Use proper contact lens care and hygiene if you wear contacts
  5. Protect your eyes from irritants and foreign objects

Erythromycin eye ointment is a valuable tool in treating and preventing bacterial eye infections. By understanding its proper use, potential side effects, and necessary precautions, you can maximize its benefits and support your eye health. Remember to always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and seek prompt medical attention for any concerns during treatment. With proper care and attention, most bacterial eye infections can be effectively managed, leading to quick recovery and maintained eye health.

Erythromycin Ophthalmic: MedlinePlus Drug Information


pronounced as (e rith” roe mye’ sin)

To use the sharing features on this page, please enable JavaScript.

  • Why is this medication prescribed?
  • How should this medicine be used?
  • Other uses for this medicine
  • What special precautions should I follow?
  • What special dietary instructions should I follow?
  • What should I do if I forget a dose?
  • What side effects can this medication cause?
  • What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?
  • In case of emergency/overdose
  • What other information should I know?
  • Brand names

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

Browse Drugs and Medicines

What Is Erythromycin Eye Ointment (Ophthalmic)?

By Meredith Marmurek; reviewed by Sonia Kelley, OD, MS

  • What is erythromycin ophthalmic ointment used for?
  • Does erythromycin eye ointment have any side effects?
  • Are there any precautions or interactions I need to know about?
  • What should I watch for while using erythromycin eye ointment?

What is erythromycin ophthalmic ointment used for?

Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial eye infections. It is only available with a prescription and is not effective against viral or fungal infections. Brand names for this eye ointment include Romycin and Ilotycin. 

Erythromycin eye ointment can treat bacterial eye infections such as:

  • Bacterial conjunctivitis A common infection of the eyes that affects the conjunctiva, which is a very thin, clear membrane that covers the white of the eye (sclera), and the inner surface of the eyelids. 

  • Blepharitis An inflammation of the eyelids caused by bacteria on the skin or at the base of the eyelashes, or by problems with oil glands in the eyelids.

  • Neonatal conjunctivitis A type of conjunctivitis in newborns that develops if chlamydia or gonorrhea bacteria enter their eyes during birth. 

Other common antibiotic eye ointments

Erythromycin is one of many antibiotic eye ointments used to treat eye infections. Other common treatments include: 

  • TobramycinAn antibiotic used for eye infections. Tobradex is a common brand name for the combination of tobramycin and a steroid used to treat bacterial eye infections.

  • Bacitracin, Polymyxin B and Neomycin – Antibiotics that kill bacteria on the skin. The combination of these three is used to treat eye infections and is only available with a prescription.

  • Ciprofloxacin ophthalmicAn antibiotic that kills the bacteria that cause infection. It is available as an ointment and as eye drops. 

How do I apply erythromycin ointment to my eye?

It’s very important that you use your eye ointment as directed by your doctor. If used incorrectly, the ointment may not work as intended. You may also be more likely to experience side effects. 

Follow these steps to apply erythromycin eye ointment properly:

Depiction of how to apply erythromycin ointment to the eye

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.  

  2. Use one or two fingers to gently pull down your lower eyelid, creating a pouch between the lid and your eyeball. 

  3. Place the tip of the tube of ointment close to your eye and squeeze a thin line of ointment in the pouch you created.

  4. Be sure not to let the tip touch anything, including your fingers and eyes. 

  5. After you have applied the ointment, blink slowly a few times. Then close your eyes for a minute or two to let it absorb completely. Your vision may be blurry for a few minutes, but try not to rub your eye.

  6. Use a clean tissue to wipe away any excess ointment from your eye area. 

  7. Use another clean tissue to wipe off the tip of the ointment tube before you replace the cap.

  8. Wash your hands once more to remove any ointment from your fingers.

You may need to use this antibiotic eye ointment up to six times a day for your bacterial eye infection. If you miss a dose, apply the ointment as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Don’t use extra ointment to make up for a missed dose.

SEE RELATED: How to put in eye drops

Does erythromycin eye ointment have any side effects?

Erythromycin eye ointment is an effective treatment for bacterial eye infections. You could still experience some side effects while using this antibiotic eye ointment, including: 

  • Burning, stinging or itching of the eyes or eyelids

  • Changes in vision

  • Redness, swelling or pain in or around the eyes

In rare cases, some people have allergic reactions to this eye ointment, such as: 

Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you have an allergic reaction or any of these side effects while using erythromycin eye ointment.

Are there any precautions or interactions I need to know about?

Drug interactions are very uncommon with erythromycin eye ointment. But to be safe, tell your doctor about all other medicines you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. 

It’s also important to tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to any medications. This includes erythromycin and any of the ingredients in erythromycin eye ointment. You can ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.

Can I wear contact lenses while using erythromycin eye ointment?

If you wear contact lenses, your doctor will suggest you wear glasses for as long as you are using your prescribed eye ointment. It is safe to wear contact lenses while using erythromycin eye ointment, but you may not want to do so. 

The ointment could prevent the contact lens from moving correctly in your eye. It could also coat the lens, which may cause blurry vision. It’s also advisable to not wear eye makeup during this time.  

What should I watch for while using erythromycin eye ointment?

You should start to feel better in two to three days, so tell your doctor if your symptoms aren’t improving. You should always tell your doctor if you are having any side effects, or if you develop other problems with your eyes while using this medication. 

It’s important to use the eye ointment exactly as directed, even if you feel better. If you stop using it too soon, the infection could come back. This can allow the bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.

Erythromycin eye ointment. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed December 2022. 

Blepharitis. National Center for Biotechnology Information. July 2021.

Conjunctivitis (pink eye) in newborns. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. January 2019. 

Dexamethasone; Tobramycin eye ointment. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed January 2022.

Ciprofloxacin ophthalmic. MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. February 2018.

ERYTHROMYCIN-Erythromycin ointment. National Institutes of Health. January 2016. 

Can I wear contacts while using eye ointment? American Academy of Ophthalmology. June 2019.

Page published on Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Medically reviewed on Wednesday, January 12, 2022

Erythromycin instructions for use: indications, contraindications, side effects – description Erythromycin eye ointment 10 thousand units / 1 g: tube 3, 7 or 10 g (13754)

💊 Composition of the drug Erythromycin

✅ The use of the drug Erythromycin

Keep for yourself

Search for analogues

Description of the active ingredients of the preparation

Erythromycin
(Erythromycin)

The scientific information provided is general and cannot be used to make decisions.
decisions about the use of a particular drug.

Update date: 2020.05.20

Marketing authorization holder:

TATHIMPHARMPREPRATY JSC
(Russia)

ATX code:

S01AA17

(Erythromycin)

Active substance:
erythromycin
(erythromycin)

Rec.INN

WHO registered

Dosage form

Erythromycin

Eye ointment 10 thousand units/1 g: tube 3, 7 or 10 g

reg. No.: LS-002421
dated 01. 08.11
– Indefinitely

Release form, packaging and composition
drug Erythromycin

Eye ointment yellowish or brownish yellow.

10 g – aluminum tubes (1) – packs of cardboard.
3 g – aluminum tubes (1) – packs of cardboard.
7 g – aluminum tubes (1) – packs of cardboard.

Clinical and pharmacological group:

Antiseptic for local use in ophthalmology

Pharmacotherapeutic group:

Macrolide antibiotic

Pharmacological action

Macrolide antibiotic. It has a bacteriostatic effect. However, in high doses, it has a bactericidal effect against sensitive microorganisms. Erythromycin reversibly binds to bacterial ribosomes, thereby inhibiting protein synthesis.

Effective against susceptible microorganisms that cause superficial eye infections of the corneal conjunctiva, incl. against Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorbed into the cornea and aqueous humor of the eye. When applied topically, a therapeutic concentration of erythromycin in the tissues of the eye is achieved, systemic absorption is low. If the corneal epithelium is damaged, the effective concentration of erythromycin in the moisture of the anterior chamber is reached 30 minutes after application.

Bioavailability is 30-65%. Distributed in most tissues and body fluids. Plasma protein binding is 70-90%. Metabolized in the liver, partly with the formation of inactive metabolites. T 1/2 – 1.4-2 hours Excreted through the intestines and kidneys.

Indications of the active substances of the drug

Erythromycin

Infectious and inflammatory eye diseases caused by susceptible microorganisms: conjunctivitis (including in newborns), bacterial blepharitis, blepharoconjunctivitis, meibomitis; as part of the complex therapy of bacterial keratitis, chlamydial conjunctivitis, blepharoconjunctivitis, trachoma; prevention of neonatal blennorea.

Open list of ICD-10 codes

A54.3 Gonococcal eye infection
A71 Trachoma
A74.0 Chlamydial conjunctivitis
H00 Hordeolum and chalazion
H01.0 Blepharitis
h20.2 Other acute conjunctivitis
h20.4 Chronic conjunctivitis
h20.5 Blepharoconjunctivitis
h26 Keratitis
P39. 1 Conjunctivitis and dacryocystitis in the newborn

Dosage regimen

The method of administration and dosing regimen of a particular drug depends on its form of release and other factors. The optimal dosage regimen is determined by the doctor. Compliance of the dosage form of a particular drug with indications for use and dosing regimen should be strictly observed.

Apply locally – the drug is placed behind the lower eyelid. The dose, frequency and duration of use is determined individually.

Side effects

Local reactions: hyperemia, irritation of the mucous membrane of the eye, blurred vision, allergic reactions.

Contraindications for use

History of jaundice, severe liver and kidney dysfunction, hypersensitivity to macrolides.

Precautions

Elderly patients, mild to moderate hepatic and renal dysfunction.

Use in pregnancy and lactation

Erythromycin crosses the placental barrier and is excreted in breast milk.

When using erythromycin during pregnancy, the intended benefit to the mother and the potential risk to the fetus should be assessed. If necessary, use during lactation should decide on the termination of breastfeeding.

Use in hepatic impairment

Contraindicated in history of jaundice, severe hepatic impairment. Use with caution in violations of liver function.

Use in impaired renal function

Contraindicated in severe impaired renal function.

Use in children

Use is possible according to the dosing regimen.

Use in elderly patients

Use with caution in elderly patients.

Special instructions

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.

Drug interactions

Shows antagonism with lincomycin, clindamycin and chloramphenicol.

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

Pharmaceutically incompatible with aminoglycosides.

When used with corticosteroids, it leads to an increase in their effect.

Keep

If you want to place a link to the description of this drug – use this code

Erythromycin . Description of the drug in the reference book Vidal.

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 sensitive 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 laid 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 everyone gets them.

The following adverse reactions have been observed in the post-registration period of the drug, the frequency of which is unknown (cannot be estimated from the available data): hypersensitivity reactions, including urticaria, burning sensation, flushing, 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.

Keep out of the reach of children.