Dosage Forms
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Ointment, Ophthalmic:
Generic: 5 mg/g (1 g, 3.5 g)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits RNA-dependent protein synthesis at the chain elongation step; binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit resulting in blockage of transpeptidation
Use: Labeled Indications
Ocular infections (superficial): Treatment of superficial ocular infections involving the conjunctiva or cornea caused by organisms susceptible to erythromycin ophthalmic ointment
Ophthalmia neonatorum: Prophylaxis of ophthalmia neonatorum due to N. gonorrhoeae or C. trachomatis
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to erythromycin or any component of the formulation
Dosage and Administration
Dosing: Adult
Ocular infections, superficial: Ophthalmic: Instill ~1 cm ribbon into affected eye(s) up to 6 times daily, depending on the severity of the infection
Dosing: Geriatric
Refer to adult dosing.
Dosing: Pediatric
Ocular infections, superficial: Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Ophthalmic: Instill 1 cm ribbon into affected eye(s) up to 6 times daily depending on the severity of the infection
Administration
Avoid contact of tip of ophthalmic ointment tube with affected eye.
Storage
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); protect from freezing and excessive heat.
Drug Interactions
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Erythromycin (Ophthalmic) may increase the serum concentration of Vitamin K Antagonists. Monitor therapy
Adverse Reactions
Frequency not defined.
Ocular: Hypersensitivity, minor ocular irritation, redness
Warnings/Precautions
Dosage form specific issues:
- For ophthalmic use only. Avoid contamination. Do not touch tip of applicator or let tip of applicator touch eye.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Risk Factor
B
Pregnancy Considerations
Adverse events were not observed in animal reproduction studies. The amount of erythromycin available systemically following ophthalmic application is not known. However, erythromycin ophthalmic is considered acceptable for use in pregnant women (Robert 2001).
Patient Education
What is this drug used for?
- It is used to treat or prevent eye infections.
Frequently reported side effects of this drug
- Eye redness
Other side effects of this drug: Talk with your doctor right away if you have any of these signs of:
- Vision changes
- Eye pain
- Severe eye irritation
- Signs of a significant reaction like wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. You must talk with the healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.
