erythromycin ophthalmic

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Pronunciation: e RITH row MYE sin off THAL mik

Brand: Eyemycin, Roymicin

Erythromycin 2% Ophth Oint-MIZ

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

You should not use erythromycin ophthalmic if you are allergic to it, or if you have a viral or fungal infection in your eye. This medication is used to only treat infections caused by bacteria.

Do not allow the tip of the tube to touch any surface, including your eyes or hands. If the tip becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Erythromycin ophthalmic will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

Erythromycin ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.

Do not use other eye medications during treatment with erythromycin ophthalmic unless your doctor tells you to.

What is erythromycin ophthalmic?

Erythromycin ophthalmic is an antibiotic.

Erythromycin ophthalmic (for the eyes) 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.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using erythromycin ophthalmic?

You should not use erythromycin ophthalmic if you are allergic to it, or if you have a viral or fungal infection in your eye. This medication is used to only treat infections caused by bacteria.

FDA pregnancy category B. Erythromycin ophthalmic is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether erythromycin ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use erythromycin ophthalmic?

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Wash your hands before using the eye ointment.

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 1/2-inch long into the lower eyelid pocket without touching the tip of the tube to your eye. Look down and close your eyes for a few minutes. Rolling your eyes around gently will help spread the ointment evenly.
  • 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 allow the tip of the tube to touch any surface, including your eyes or hands. If the tip becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Erythromycin ophthalmic will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

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 missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

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. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly.

Do not use this medication while wearing contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using erythromycin ophthalmic before putting your contact lenses in.

Do not use other eye medications during treatment with erythromycin ophthalmic unless your doctor tells you to.

What are the possible side effects of erythromycin ophthalmic?

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

Stop using erythromycin ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, stinging, or other irritation after using the ointment.

Less serious side effects may include:

  • mild stinging or eye irritation;
  • mild itching or redness
  • blurred vision; or
  • increased sensitivity to light.

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?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on erythromycin ophthalmic used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about erythromycin ophthalmic.

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.

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