Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is an antibiotic used to treat a number of eye infections, such as corneal infections. Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is also used to prevent a serious infection in newborns called ophthalmia neonatorum, caused by gonorrhea infecting the eye as a baby passes through the birth canal of an infected mother. The ointment also prevents chlamydia trachomatis, another sexually transmitted disease that can infect infants during birth, the American Academy of Family Physicians reports. Like any medication, erythromycin ophthalmic ointment can cause side effects.
Blurred Vision
Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment is a thick, viscous ointment that remains on the eye for several minutes before dissolving. The ointment can temporarily blur vision, giving the appearance of looking through a glass smeared with Vaseline. Driving or other activities requiring normal vision should be postponed until the blurriness wears off. If blurred vision doesn't dissipate within a few minutes, notify the prescribing medical practitioner.
Redness
Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment can cause the eye to become red. Reddening can be a sign of allergy to the medication and should be reported to medical personnel if it affects the entire eye or if pain, extreme itching or swelling occur along with redness. Redness could also indicate a worsening of infection if the person using the medication has an existing infection. Light sensitivity, discharge, vision loss and increasing pain along with redness can indicate a deeper infection in the eye and requires immediate medical evaluation to prevent permanent vision loss, MedlinePlus states.
Stinging
Applying erythromycin ophthalmic ointment to the eye can cause transient stinging and burning in the eye. If stinging and burning persist more than a few minutes, notify the prescribing doctor.
Allergic Reactions
Severe allergic reactions such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, rash or hives can occur with use of any medication, including erythromycin ophthalmic ointment. Always notify medical personnel if an allergic reaction to the medication occurs.
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