Neonatal Drug Therapy Manual

Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment

Disclaimer: Official controlled document is the CHEO and Ottawa Hospital online copy. It is the responsibility of user to ensure that any paper copy version is the same as the online version before use.

Alternate Name(s): 
Ilotycin
Classification: 
Antibiotic
Original Date: 
Revised Date: 
Indications: 
  • Prophylaxis of gonococcal ophthalmia neonatorum
  • Treatment of superficial ocular infections involving the conjunctiva and/or cornea caused by organisms susceptible to erythromycin
Administration: 
  • For Prophylaxis:
    • Apply 0.5 - 1 cm in length in the lower conjunctival sacs within 2 hours of birth. The eyelids are then massaged gently to spread the ointment
  • For treatment:
    • Apply a small amount of ophthalmic ointment to each eye one or more times daily, depending on the severity of the infection
Dosage: 

N/A

Side Effects: 

N/A

Parameters to Monitor: 

N/A

Reconstitution and Stability: 

N/A

Compatibility: 

N/A

Notes: 
  • Potential administration hazards: irritation, allergic contact dermatitis
References: 

Taketomo CK, Hodding JH, Kraus DM. Pediatric Dosage Handbook 9th-11th Editions. Hudson: Lexi-Comp Inc.; 2002-2004.

The information contained on this website is provided for informational purposes only, as a guide to assist physicians, nurses and other healthcare providers in deciding on the appropriate care required for a particular patient. At all times, physicians, nurses and other healthcare providers must exercise their independent clinical judgment, based on their knowledge, training and experience, taking into account the specific facts and circumstances of each patient, when deciding on the appropriate course of investigation and/or treatment to recommend in a particular clinical situation.

CHEO has made every effort to ensure that the information contained on this website is as current and accurate as possible. However, changes can occur due to ongoing research and the constant influx of new information. Where possible, hospitals and healthcare practitioners should verify the information before acting on it.

Reliance on any information in this website is at the user's own risk. CHEO is not responsible or liable for any harm, loss or other consequences from the use or misuse of the information on this website.