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 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 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.