erythromycin ophthalmic

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum:  

Action:  

erythromycin ophthalmic works by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of bacteria that cause infections. It does this by binding to the bacterial ribosome and blocking the synthesis of proteins necessary for bacterial growth and replication. 

Spectrum:  

erythromycin ophthalmic has a narrow spectrum of activity, meaning that it is effective against only certain types of bacteria. It is most commonly used to treat infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae. However, it may not be effective against all strains of these bacteria, and other antibiotics may be necessary for certain infections. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Redness 

Hypersensitivity reactions 

Minor ocular reactions 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

Allergic reactions: erythromycin ophthalmic ointment may cause an allergic reaction that can be serious. If you notice symptoms of an allergic reaction, including hives, breathing difficulties, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. 

Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea: erythromycin ophthalmic ointment has been associated with a severe form of diarrhea called Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD). CDAD can cause severe colon damage and may be life-threatening. Contact your healthcare provider if you develop persistent diarrhea during or after erythromycin ophthalmic ointment treatment. 

Antibiotic resistance: erythromycin ophthalmic ointment may contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This may result in infections that are more difficult to treat. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is a medication used to treat certain eye infections. However, there are several contraindications that should be taken into consideration before using this medication. Some of the contraindications of erythromycin ophthalmic include: 

Allergy to erythromycin or other macrolide antibiotics 

Use of certain medications such as terfenadine, astemizole, cisapride, or pimozide 

Use in patients with liver disease or impaired liver function 

Use in patients with myasthenia gravis 

Use in patients with a history of QT prolongation or cardiac arrhythmias 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

erythromycin ophthalmic is a medication that is used to treat bacterial infections in the eye. It belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotics and inhibits bacterial protein synthesis. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamics of erythromycin ophthalmic involve inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, which leads to bacterial growth and the resolution of bacterial infections in the eye. 

MOA:  

erythromycin ophthalmic works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, preventing bacteria growth and multiplication. It also enhances the body’s immune response, leading to faster resolution of infections.  

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption:  

erythromycin ophthalmic is applied directly to the eye and is absorbed locally, rather than systemically. This means that the medication does not need to be absorbed into the bloodstream to be effective. 

Distribution:  

Once absorbed, erythromycin ophthalmic is distributed throughout the eye tissues to treat the infection. It does not have significant distribution beyond the eye.  

Metabolism:  

erythromycin ophthalmic is not significantly metabolized in the body. Any metabolism that does occur is likely to happen locally within the eye.  

Excretion and elimination: 

erythromycin ophthalmic is primarily excreted from the body through the tear ducts and into the nasal cavity, where it is eliminated through normal respiratory processes. It is not significantly eliminated through the liver or kidneys. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Wash your hands thoroughly before using erythromycin ophthalmic.  

Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.  

Hold the dropper directly over your eye and squeeze out one or two drops into the pocket. 

Close your eye for a few seconds to allow the medication to spread across the eye.  

Repeat the process for the other eye if instructed to do so.  

To prevent contamination, refrain from touching the dropper tip with your hands or any other surface.  

In case you are utilizing other eye medications, it is advisable to wait for a minimum of 5 minutes between each application.  

Use erythromycin ophthalmic for the full course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve.  

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember.   

Do not stop using erythromycin ophthalmic without consulting your doctor.  

Keep the medication in a dry and cool place at room temperature, shielded from moisture and heat.  

Discard the medication after the expiration date or if it has become discolored or cloudy. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: erythromycin ophthalmic 

Why do we use erythromycin ophthalmic?   

erythromycin ophthalmic is an antibiotic eye medication used to treat bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) and corneal ulcers.  

erythromycin ophthalmic is commonly used because it is effective against a wide range of bacteria, and it is relatively safe and well-tolerated. It is available as an ointment or eye drops and is usually applied to the affected eye several times a day for a period of one to two weeks. 

It is important to note that erythromycin ophthalmic is only effective against bacterial infections and will not be effective for viral or fungal eye infections. If you have an eye infection, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate treatment.