Taylor Rackey, CPM Candidate

Midwifery Practice Documents

Revised April 16th, 2020

Drug Protocol: Erythromycin

Drug​: Erythromycin [Ilotycin]

Indication for Use: ​For the treatment of superficial ocular infections involving the conjunctiva and/or cornea caused by
organisms susceptible to erythromycin. For prophylaxis of ophthalmia neonatorum due to N. gonorrhoeae or C.
trachomatis.
Mechanism of Action: ​Erythromycin inhibits protein synthesis, thereby decreasing bacterial replication.
Form Dose Route of Administration instructions Treatment notes
Administration
Topical 1cm TOP Apply a ribbon (approximately 1 cm) of Adverse effects include chemical
ointment ribbon 0.5% ophthalmic ointment into each pink-eye, or eye irritation.
lower conjunctival sac immediately after
Blurred vision with potential to
birth (i.e., within 1 hour). Do not flush
interfere with bonding and
eyes.
gazing.
20% failure rate in the past - may
even be less effective now due to
growing resistance.
May not be effective in
preventing chlamydial
ophthalmia neonatorum (ON) or
ON from other non-gonorrheal
bacteria.
Contraindications: ​individuals with a hypersensitivity to erythromycin
Storage: ​store between 59°-77°F (15°-25°C).

References:

Dekker, R. (2019, November 6). The Evidence on: Erythromycin Eye Ointment for Newborns. Retrieved from
https://evidencebasedbirth.com/is-erythromycin-eye-ointment-always-necessary-for-newborns/

Prescribers' Digital Reference. (2019). Erythromycin - Drug Summary. Retrieved from

https://www.pdr.net/drug-summary/Erythromycin-Ophthalmic-Ointment-erythromycin-709.331