Eye infection antibiotics: what should you know?

Redness, watering, discharge, soreness, or crusting can result from bacteria, viruses, allergies, irritation, or a problem with the eyelid or cornea. Antibiotics act against certain bacteria; they do not treat viral or allergic conjunctivitis. The choice may be an eye drop, ointment, or medicine taken by mouth, depending on the site, severity, and suspected organism. Some infections linked with chlamydia or gonorrhoea need specific medical treatment rather than routine drops.

Use only medicine prescribed or recommended for this episode. Wash your hands, avoid touching the bottle tip to the eye, and follow the stated schedule for as long as directed. Do not share drops, use an old opened bottle, or save medicine for a future red eye. Stop contact lenses while the eye is infected or painful and clean or replace lens equipment as advised. Wipe discharge with a clean damp cloth and wash hands after caring for the eye.

Arrange prompt assessment if symptoms are worsening, vision is blurred, pain is significant, light is uncomfortable, or a contact lens is involved. Seek emergency help after a chemical splash or injury, or for sudden vision loss or severe eye pain. A spreading eyelid or facial swelling, fever, or feeling very unwell also needs urgent review. If prescribed treatment is not helping, contact the prescriber rather than adding another product.

What type of infection is suspected, and why is this antibiotic appropriate? How should I apply it, and when should improvement begin? When can I return to contact lenses or work?