Oral antibiotics for conjunctivitis: what to know

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the surface covering the eye and inner eyelid. Viruses, bacteria, allergy and irritation can produce similar redness or discharge, but oral antibiotics act only against selected bacterial infections. Many uncomplicated cases are managed with hygiene, comfort measures or locally applied treatment after an examination. Tablets may be considered when infection is linked to a wider illness, involves surrounding tissues, or needs a medicine that reaches more than the eye surface. Eye discharge can help describe the illness, but it does not by itself identify the cause.

Arrange a GP consultation if symptoms are significant, persistent or unclear. Until assessed, wash hands before and after touching the eye, avoid sharing towels or cosmetics, and pause contact-lens use. Do not use leftover antibiotics or someone else’s prescription. If a clinician prescribes tablets, take them exactly as directed and report troublesome reactions rather than changing the course yourself. A separate eye treatment may be needed, depending on the examination.

Seek urgent medical assessment for eye pain, reduced or blurred vision, marked light sensitivity, swelling around the eye, difficulty moving the eye, fever, or rapidly worsening redness. These features can signal a problem deeper than simple conjunctivitis. Light sensitivity is especially relevant when it is new or pronounced. Newborns, people with weakened immunity and contact-lens wearers should seek advice promptly when an eye becomes red or painful.

Ask which cause is most consistent with the examination, whether an oral medicine is actually needed, what symptoms should improve first, and which side effects require a call. Check whether contact lenses, work or school attendance, and treatment of close contacts need special instructions.