Erythromycin ophthalmic (eye ointment and drops) prescription online

Styes are typically caused by an infection of an oil gland at the base of an eyelash. Erythromycin ointment addresses styes and painful lumps that can develop on the eyelid due to bacterial infection. The ointment reduces discomfort and promotes healing by providing targeted treatment that inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria. While they are generally not contagious, styes can be uncomfortable.

Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, is a highly contagious bacterial or viral infection that affects the eyes, causing the whites of the eyes to appear reddish or pink.  Both bacterial and viral pink eye are contagious; however, erythromycin ointment is an antibiotic that will only treat bacterial eye infections. While annoying and uncomfortable, viral pink eye is generally not dangerous.

Erythromycin ointment is also used to prevent bacterial eye infections in newborns. This measure can be effective in preventing gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum, a severe eye infection that can occur in newborns exposed to the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae during childbirth. Erythromycin ointment is often applied to the eyes of newborns shortly after birth to prevent this type of infection and protect their vision, by the care providers present at that time.

Erythromycin eye ointment stops harmful bacteria from growing in your eyes when you have an infection. While most common bacterial infections are not severe, some untreated eye infections can have serious consequences. Your doctor will help guide you to prevent unnecessary risks to your eye health. 

The risks of leaving a bacterial eye infection untreated can include:

• Increased severity: A bacterial eye infection can worsen without appropriate treatment. The bacteria can continue to reproduce and cause more damage, potentially leading to complications like corneal ulcers. Corneal ulcers are open sores on the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, and can seriously affect vision.

• Chronic inflammation: Untreated bacterial eye infections can result in persistent inflammation. The eye may remain red, swollen, and uncomfortable. Chronic inflammation can contribute to long-term discomfort and may interfere with daily activities.

• Vision impairment: In severe cases where the infection progresses without intervention, bacteria cause damage to the cornea and other structures in the eye. This damage can lead to vision impairment or even permanent vision loss. Timely treatment is crucial to prevent such consequences.

• Systemic spread: In rare instances, bacteria from an untreated eye infection can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic infections. This can have implications beyond the eye, affecting other organs and systems in the body. 

• Recurrence: When a bacterial eye infection is not properly addressed, there's a greater risk of recurrence. The infection may appear to resolve initially, but underlying bacteria can persist, causing the infection to return. This painful cycle can lead to ongoing discomfort and require extended or repeated treatment.

• Complications in vulnerable populations: Certain groups, such as infants, patients over 65, or individuals with weakened immune systems, are particularly vulnerable to serious complications from bacterial eye infections. They may experience more severe symptoms, and the risks of systemic spread and other complications are heightened.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis: The 0.5% ointment effectively treats bacterial conjunctivitis in children.

• Dosage: Directions may include applying a half-inch ribbon of the 0.5% ointment into the affected eye up to 6-7 times daily, depending on your doctor’s recommendation and the severity of the infection.

• Bacterial eye infections: The 0.5% concentration is commonly used for treating various bacterial eye infections, including conjunctivitis and blepharitis.

• Dosage: Typically, adults apply a half-inch strip of 0.5% ointment to the affected eye 6 to 7 times daily, depending on the infection. Your doctor will provide you with individual instructions.

• Duration and frequency of use: The treatment duration with erythromycin ointment 0.5% varies. It's essential to complete the prescribed course, even if symptoms improve.

• Application technique: Care should be taken to apply the ointment correctly, avoiding contamination of the tube tip.

• Monitoring for reactions: Particularly in babies and children, monitoring for any adverse reactions or allergies is crucial. Any signs of worsening conditions should be reported to your doctor immediately.

In certain situations, alternative treatments may be explored for various reasons, such as allergies to specific medications, unavailability of a particular prescription, or individual patient preferences.

Azithromycin ophthalmic solution, like erythromycin, is an antibiotic designed for ophthalmic use. Azithromycin ophthalmic solution is sometimes preferred to erythromycin for the following reasons: 

• Broader spectrum antibiotic: Azithromycin, like erythromycin, is a macrolide antibiotic, but it often has a broader spectrum of activity against bacteria, making it effective against a more comprehensive range of bacterial eye infections.

• Less frequent dosing: Azithromycin ophthalmic solution typically requires less frequent dosing than erythromycin ointment. For instance, azithromycin can be used once daily, which can be more convenient and improve patient compliance, especially in chronic conditions.

• Easier to apply: Some patients may prefer the solution form of azithromycin over the ointment form of erythromycin. Solutions can be less messy and more accessible, especially for those who find ointments to blur their vision excessively.

• Reduced risk of antibiotic resistance: In some cases, azithromycin is chosen to minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance, especially if there is concern about the overuse of erythromycin or if the specific bacterial strain is known to be more responsive to azithromycin.

• Comfort: Azithromycin is generally well-tolerated, with a low incidence of local irritation. Some patients may experience less discomfort with azithromycin solution compared to erythromycin ointment.

• Sustained effects:  Azithromycin has a long half-life and excellent tissue penetration, which can be advantageous in treating eye infections where sustained antibiotic presence is beneficial.

• Allergy or sensitivity Issues: Azithromycin is a suitable alternative, given its different chemical structure, when a patient is allergic to or sensitive to erythromycin.

However, it is important to note that in terms of cost, erythromycin is usually a more affordable solution. Azithromycin eye solution often averages more than $200 per vial, whereas erythromycin ointment often costs less than $20 per tube.

At PlushCare, our priority is making sure you receive the information and advice you need when making decisions about your health. Eye infections can be frustrating and disrupt your daily life; take all the time you need to chat with your doctor about your treatment plan, outcome, any potential side effects, etc. Here are some questions that may be helpful to discuss with your doctor: 

• What should I do if I experience unwanted side effects?

• Will Erythromycin interact with any other medications I’m taking?

• How do I apply the ointment? 

• When is the best time to take this medication?

• How long will I need to take Erythromycin before the infection clears up?

• When would you recommend a follow-up appointment to monitor my symptoms?

• Are there any alternative options for treatment if the infection doesn’t clear up?