Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Ophthalmic erythromycin is prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections affecting the eye. It is also utilized to prevent bacterial eye infections in newborns. Belonging to the class of medications known as macrolide antibiotics, erythromycin functions by eradicating the bacteria responsible for the infections.
Uses and Dosage
Ophthalmic erythromycin is provided in the form of an ointment for application to the eyes. Typically, it is applied up to six times daily for treating eye infections. In newborns, ophthalmic erythromycin is usually applied once in the hospital shortly after birth to prevent eye infections.
Use erythromycin eye ointment precisely as directed—avoid using more or less of it or applying it more frequently than prescribed by your doctor.
During your treatment, you should anticipate improvement in your symptoms. However, if your symptoms worsen, fail to improve, or if you experience other issues with your eyes, contact your doctor promptly.
To administer the eye drops, the following steps should be followed:
- Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
- Do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface, and ensure that it is kept clean.
- Tilt the head back and pull down the lower lid of the eye using the index finger to form a pocket.
- Hold the dropper as close to the eye as possible without making contact, and brace the remaining fingers against the face.
- Squeeze the dropper gently to instill a single drop in the pocket created by the lower eyelid while looking upwards.
- Remove the index finger from the lower eyelid and keep the eye closed for 2-3 minutes while tilting the head down.
- Apply gentle pressure to the tear duct using a finger.
- Use a tissue to wipe off any excess liquid from the face.
- Wash hands to remove any residual medication.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- minor eye irritations
- stinging
- burning
- redness
- temporary blurred vision
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- new or worsening eye symptoms (pain, swelling, thick discharge or pus)
- rash
- itching
- swelling of the face, tongue or throat
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
Caution
- Before starting erythromycin treatment, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you have, including allergies to other macrolide antibiotics like clarithromycin, or any other substances. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.
- After applying this medication, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring clear vision until your vision has returned to normal.
- During pregnancy, use erythromycin only when absolutely necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It’s unclear whether erythromycin passes into breast milk when administered as an eye ointment. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Ilotycin Eye Ointment is available in the following forms and strengths:
- erythromycin ophthalmic eye ointment:
- 5 mg / g
FAQ
Does Ilotycin Eye Ointment treat pink eye?
Ilotycin Eye Ointment can be used to treat pink eye (conjunctivitis) only if it’s caused by a bacterial infection. Symptoms of bacterial pink eye include eyelid crusting in the morning; thick eye discharge that’s green, yellow, or white; eye discharge that builds up at the corner of the eye.
Is Ilotycin Eye Ointment a sulfa drug?
No, Ilotycin Eye Ointment isn’t a sulfa medication, so it won’t trigger a sulfa allergic reaction. It’s a macrolide antibiotic, similar to azithromycin. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to macrolide antibiotics, such as swollen eyelids or red, itchy eyes, tell your provider.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/erythromycin/what-is#faqs
- https://www.rxlist.com/ilotycin-drug.htm
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/erythromycin-ophthalmic-route/description/drg-20068673
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7242/ilotycin-ophthalmic-eye/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a613018.html
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/ilotycin.html
