- Types of infections treated with erythromycin include bacterial conjunctivitis, or pink eye; inflammation of the eyelids, or blepharitis; and trachoma.
- At times, a doctor might prescribe an oral medication taken along with erythromycin to treat an eye infection. The ointment is commonly used to treat bacterial eye infections in infants without any additional oral medications.
- Erythromycin provides relief from discomfort such as redness, pain, discharge and itching while it prevents the spread of infection to others. Additionally, it prevents blindness possible with certain eye infections such as trachoma.
- Though rare, erythromycin can cause allergic reactions in some patients. If symptoms get worse rather than improve or if red welts, wheezing or shortness of breath develops, seek medical attention.
- No evidence exists to prove that erythromycin ophthalmic ointment poses no threat to fetal development. Hence, the drug is not recommended for pregnant women. Do not to wear contact lenses while using erythromycin.
