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Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic applied directly to the eye. It fights bacterial infections right at the source. It comes as an ointment rather than drops, which means it stays in contact with your eye longer.
For Bacterial Eye InfectionsPrescription RequiredEye Use Only
Reviewed by Chris Woods, MSN, APRN, FNP-C — Licensed Nurse Practitioner. This page provides educational information about erythromycin ophthalmic ointment and should not replace professional medical advice.
What It Treats
Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is prescribed for bacterial infections affecting your eye. The most common reason people use it is bacterial conjunctivitis — also called pink eye.
Important: Erythromycin works against bacterial infections only. If your pink eye is caused by a virus or allergy, this medication won't help. Your provider will test to determine the cause before prescribing.
How to Apply Erythromycin Ointment
Applying eye ointment takes a little practice, but it gets easier. Follow these steps carefully to get the medicine where it needs to go.
Dosage
Application
Amount per dose
A thin ribbon of ointment about 1 centimeter long (roughly the size of a grain of rice)
Frequency
2 to 6 times daily, depending on your provider's instructions
Duration
5 to 7 days (always finish the full course even if you feel better)
Best time to apply
At night before bed is ideal, since vision will be blurry for 5-15 minutes
Step-by-Step Application
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before touching your eyes or the medication.
Remove contact lenses if you're wearing them. Do not apply the ointment over contacts, and leave them out for the entire treatment period.
Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket between your eye and lid.
Squeeze a thin ribbon of ointment (about 1 centimeter) into the pocket. Don't let the tube tip touch your eye, eyelid, or any surface — this prevents contamination.
Close your eye gently and roll your eye in all directions for a few seconds. This spreads the ointment across the eye.
Keep your eye closed for 1-2 minutes to allow absorption.
Blot away excess ointment with a clean tissue. Your vision will be blurry for a few minutes — this is normal.
Wash your hands again after application.
Tip: If you're supposed to apply the ointment multiple times a day, set phone reminders to help you stay on schedule. Missing doses makes it less effective. If you forget a dose, apply it as soon as you remember — unless it's almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed one.
Side Effects
Most side effects from erythromycin eye ointment are mild and temporary. However, it's important to know what's normal and what warrants a call to your provider.
Common Side Effects
Temporary blurred vision (lasts 5-15 minutes)
Mild stinging or burning when applying
Minor eye irritation or grittiness
Slight oozing of ointment from the corner of your eye
Mild redness around the application site
These effects typically fade as your eye adjusts to the ointment.
Serious Side Effects
Severe eye pain or throbbing
Worsening redness or significant swelling
Vision loss or sudden vision changes
Severe itching that doesn't improve
Signs of allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, hives, throat swelling)
Discharge with an unusual color or consistency
Contact your provider immediately if you experience any of these.
When to Call Your Provider
Most people tolerate erythromycin well, but certain signs mean you should reach out for guidance.
Call or text your provider if:
Severe eye pain develops (worse than mild stinging)
You notice significant vision loss
Symptoms worsen after 48 hours of use
Discharge gets worse or changes color
You develop fever or signs of a systemic infection
Signs of allergic reaction appear (rash, hives, throat tightness)
You accidentally apply ointment that appears contaminated or expired
Important Warnings & Precautions
Before using erythromycin ophthalmic ointment, make sure your provider knows about any allergies or medical conditions.
Before using this medication, tell your provider if you:
Are allergic to erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics
Have had any eye surgery recently
Wear contact lenses regularly
Are pregnant or breastfeeding (erythromycin is Category B for pregnancy, generally considered safe)
Have other eye conditions or take eye medications
Key Safety Points
For eye use only: Never ingest or apply this ointment anywhere else on your body.
Don't touch the tube tip to your eye: This prevents bacteria from being introduced into the medication.
Remove contacts before applying: Leave them out for the entire treatment course.
Vision will be temporarily blurry: Don't drive or operate machinery right after application. Nighttime use is ideal.
Finish the full course: Even if symptoms improve after 2-3 days, complete the full 5-7 day course to prevent the infection from returning.
Store properly: Keep at room temperature. Don't freeze or expose to excessive heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why ointment instead of eye drops?▾
Ointment stays in contact with your eye longer than drops do. This means more of the medicine gets absorbed and you don't have to apply it as often. The trade-off is temporary blurry vision, which is completely normal.
How long will my vision be blurry after applying?▾
Vision blurriness typically lasts 5 to 15 minutes after you apply the ointment. This is why it's best to apply it at night before bed or times when you don't need to drive or do detailed work. Your vision will clear as your eye naturally drains the ointment.
Can I wear contacts while using this?▾
No, you should remove your contacts before applying erythromycin ointment. Leave them out for the entire course of treatment. The ointment can coat contact lenses and reduce their effectiveness. If your eyes feel back to normal after treatment, you can resume wearing them.
How do I apply eye ointment without making a mess?▾
Wash your hands first. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze a thin ribbon (about 1 centimeter) of ointment into that pocket without letting the tube tip touch your eye or lid. Then close your eye gently and roll it around a few times to spread the ointment. A little tissue can catch any excess.
How long until my pink eye gets better?▾
Most people start seeing improvement within 24 to 48 hours. By day 3 or 4, symptoms usually get noticeably better. But finish your full 5 to 7 day course even if you feel completely better — stopping early can let the infection come back.
Medical Sources & References
This information is based on peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative clinical guidelines:
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