Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment
(er ith roe mye' sin)

Other Names
Ilotycin

WHY is this medication prescribed?

Erythromycin is an antibiotic medicine that treat infections of the eyes.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

HOW should this medicine be used?

Use this medication as directed.

Try to use this medication at the same time each day to get into a routine of taking this. Do not stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor.

Apply eye drops to the affected eye(s) using this five-step technique:

1. Wash hands first. To avoid contamination, be careful not to touch the dropper or let it touch your eye.

2. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch.

3. Place dropper directly over eye and administer the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes.

4. Place one finger at the corner of the eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining away from the eye.

5. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do no rinse the dropper.
If you are using another type of eye drop, wait at least five minutes before applying other medications.

What SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS should I follow?

Ask your physician about use of this medication during pregnancy or while breast-feeding.

This medication may temporarily sting when first applied. If this persists, inform your doctor. Vision may be temporarily blurred after applying eye medication.

Use caution driving or performing duties requiring clear vision. Inform your doctor if you develop skin rash, itching, redness, swelling in or around the eyes or ears while using this.

What should I do if I FORGET A DOSE?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What SIDE EFFECTS can this medication cause?

This medication may temporarily sting when first applied. If this persists, inform your doctor. Vision may be temporarily blurred after applying eye medication.

Use caution driving or performing duties requiring clear vision. Inform your doctor if you develop skin rash, itching, redness, swelling in or around the eyes or ears while using this.

What STORAGE CONDITIONS are needed for this medication?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Some erythromycin eye drop prescriptions require refrigeration; others require room temperature and must be stored away from excess heat. Check with your physician or pharmacist.

Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.

What OTHER INFORMATION should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish this medication, call your doctor.