Eye doctors prescribe erythromycin optic ointment to help treat or prevent eye infections. To instill the medication, the patient will pull out the lower eyelid, forming a cup. She will then insert a small amount of the ointment and close her eyes for a few minutes to let the ointment distribute throughout the eye's surface and surrounding tissues. Most people do not react to erythromycin ointment, but, like any medication, the ophthalmic ointment may have side effects.
Irritation
Erythromycin optic ointment comes in direct contact with the surface of the eye, and the user may have sensitivities to the antibiotic or other components of the medication. As a result, he may experience irritation to the surface of the eye or eyelids, states MayoClinic.com. The eye may turn red, itch or have an intense burning sensation. If any of these symptoms appear, the patient should stop using the ointment and contact the prescribing eye doctor for further evaluation and treatment.
Systemic Effects
Eye medications may cause side effects throughout the body, also called systemic effects. As the ointment disperses across the surface of the eye, some of the ointment will seep into the membranes around the eye and enter the bloodstream. Some of the medication also will drain through the tear ducts, down the back of the throat and into the stomach. As a result, multiple areas of the body can have a reaction to the medication. Though most people do not have any reaction to erythromycin optic ointment, systemic effects may include problems breathing, diarrhea, stomach pain or blood in the stool, reports Drugs.com. Some patients also may experience skin rashes, such as hives, or swelling of the face and mouth. Any changes to comfort or breathing require immediate medical attention.
Blurry Vision
Erythromycin ophthalmic ointment may also cause blurry vision, explains Drugs.com. This results from the thick consistency of the medication. As the ointment "melts," it will coat the surface of the eye, distorting vision. The vision change will typically last a short time, depending on how long it takes for the medication to fully absorb into the tissues. If a person must use the ointment during the day, she should take caution when performing activities that may cause injury.
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