Erythromycin eye ointment is a prescription antibiotic which can be used in dogs for eye and eyelid infections. Dogs can easily develop eye infections due to a series of factors: bacteria, foreign matter, irritants, the Lyme disease, herpes virus or other factors. Erythromycin eye ointment is useful in fighting infections caused by bacteria which affect the cornea and the conjunctiva. Given that erythromycin can have serious side effects, it is recommended to apply the treatment only if prescribed by a veterinarian.
Erythromycin Eye Ointment for Dogs
Erythromycin eye ointment is an antibiotic used in treating eye and eyelid bacterial infections in dogs. It is efficient in fighting the bacteria such as N. gonorrhoeae and C. trachomatis. These bacteria are responsible for infections at the level of the conjunctiva or cornea.
Erythromycin should be avoided in dogs that are allergic to this product or manifest hypersensitivity to preservatives and dyes.
Erythromycin eye ointment should only be used for bacterial infections. If the eye infection of your dog’s eye is caused by viruses or fungi, erythromycin may not be effective. It is important that you have your dog’s infection diagnosed correctly before you start the treatment.
Application of Erythromycin Eye Ointment
According to the severity of the infection, your veterinarian will recommend the dosage as well as the frequency of application. Usually the ointment has to be applied 2 or 3 times a day.
Erythromycin eye ointment has to be applied inside the dog’s eye in a thin layer. You should be very careful that the applicator does not touch the dog’s eye. This could cause pain, discomfort and could even cause eye damage.
Before starting the application wash your hands and pay attention not to insert any other foreign matter into the eye. Make sure the applicator is also clean.
Complete the treatment even if you see signs of improvement. All antibiotics have to be administered for a certain period of time and treatment should not be interrupted.
Side Effects and Precautionsof Erythromycin
Erythromycin eye ointments can also have severe side effects, so you should only use it if recommended by the veterinarian. Most common side effects are related to the intolerance or improper use of the ointment. Your dog can experience irritation in the area, burning sensation, blurred eyesight, redness, and itches.
The improper use of erythromycin can worsen the disease instead of curing it.
It is imperative that you follow the instructions and closely monitor administration. If any side effects appear, you should consult your veterinarian immediately and ask him for an alternative course of treatment.
The effect erythromycin has on pregnancy and lactation has not been clearly established yet, so you should consult your veterinarian on the best treatment option.
Make sure the product is stored according to the instructions and that you use it while it’s not expired. Extreme heat or refrigeration can damage the product and may affect the efficiency of the treatment.