These eye ointments contain different types of antibiotics and are prescribed to combat a variety of infections.
While they are mostly helpful, all antibiotics come with potential health risks.
Heres how to best use them.
buradaki / iStock / Getty Images
buradaki / iStock / Getty Images
Uses
All antibiotics are not the same.
There are different antibiotic classes with different mechanisms of action.
These include aminoglycoside, macrolide, polypeptide, quinolone, and tetracycline antibiotics.
Such medications can disrupt bacteria at different points in the lifecycle.
Depending on the jot down of bacteria, some may also be more effective in fighting these.
They are ineffective against viruses, fungi, or parasites.
Keep in mind that the infection may not respond to this medication.
These tests can also show if the infection is bacterial at all.
Depending on the infection, practitioners may prescribe antibiotic drops to treat this instead of ointment.
You may in some cases also be able to find some drops over-the-counter meant for mild infections.
Be aware that antibiotic use should not be taken lightly, even with eye ointments.
You may also expose the eye to contaminants if using medication past its expiration date.
Preservatives in the medication can break down and allow contaminants to flourish.
The end result is you make things worse.
To avoid resistance, be sure to use the medication as prescribed, even if your symptoms subside.
You may be instructed to apply a ribbon to the conjunctiva sac.
You want to avoid touching the tip of the tube to the cornea and getting an abrasion.
Keep in mind, this is for the eye only.
Do not put the ointment in your nose or mouth.
Side Effects
While generally safe, some may experience side effects from the antibiotic ointment.
Most common side effects are not serious.
MedlinePlus.Neomycin, polymyxin, and bacitracin ophthalmic.
Prescribers' Digital Reference.Bacitracin drug summary.
Prescribers' Digital Reference.Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride drug summary.
Prescribers' Digital Reference.Erythromycin drug summary.
Prescribers' Digital Reference.Gentamicin sulfate drug summary.
Prescribers' Digital Reference.Bacitracin/neomycin/polymyxin B suflate drug summary.
Prescribers' Digital Reference.Bacitracin zinc/polymyxin B sulfate drug summary.
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