Erythromycin
How to use this information
Medication name
ERYTHROMYCIN - OPHTHALMIC
(eh-rith-row-MY-sin)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ilotycin
What you should know about Erythromycin - Ophthalmic
- This medication is used to treat certain eye infections (such as conjunctivitis). It is also used to prevent certain eye infections in newborns. It belongs to a class of drugs known as macrolide antibiotics. Erythromycin works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
- This medication treats only bacterial eye infections. It will not work for other types of eye infections. Unnecessary use or misuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.
How to take Erythromycin - Ophthalmic
- To apply eye ointment, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the tip of the tube or let it touch your eye, eyelid or any other surface. Apply to the eyes only. Do not swallow or inject.
- Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medication. Sterilize contact lenses according to the manufacturer's directions, and check with your medical provider before you begin using them again.
- To apply eye ointments, tilt your head back, look up and gently pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place about a half-inch (1 centimeter) strip of ointment into the pouch as directed by your medical provider. Gently close the eye and roll the eyeball in all directions to spread the medication. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed. Wipe the tip of the ointment tube with a clean tissue to remove extra medication before recapping it. Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.
- The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use it more often than directed.
- If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as drops or ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
- Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
- Continue using it for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too soon may allow the bacteria to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection. Tell your medical provider if your condition lasts or gets worse.
Potential side effects
- Eye stinging/burning/redness or temporary blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your medical provider or pharmacist promptly.
- Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your medical provider has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
- Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in other types of eye infections, including fungal infections. Stop using this medication and contact your medical provider if you notice new or worsening eye symptoms (such as pain, swelling, thick discharge or pus).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- Rash
- Itching/swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
- Severe dizziness
- Trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, request a callback for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Precautions to be aware of
- Before using Erythromycin, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other macrolide antibiotics (such as Azithromycin or Clarithromycin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
- Before using this medication, tell your medical provider or pharmacist your medical history.
- After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery or do any activity that requires clear vision until you can do it safely.
- Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products).
- During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your OB/GYN.
- It is not known whether Erythromycin passes into breast milk when given as an eye ointment. It is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your medical provider or child’s pediatrician before breast-feeding.
Drug interactions
- Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions.
- Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your medical provider and pharmacist. Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicines without your medical provider's approval.
What to do in the event of an overdose
- This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
- If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms, such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. If symptoms from taking this medication are less severe, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
Additional notes
- Do not share this medication with others.
- This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your medical provider tells you to.
What to do if you miss a dose
- If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
How to store this medication
- Store at room temperature. Do not expose this drug to high heat. Do not freeze. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
- Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
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