From the FDA Drug Label
For the treatment of superficial ocular infections involving the conjunctiva and/or cornea caused by organisms susceptible to erythromycin. The recommended topical antibiotic for styes is erythromycin 1.
- Erythromycin is used for the treatment of superficial ocular infections, which includes styes.
- It is effective against organisms susceptible to erythromycin.
From the Research
Moxifloxacin is the recommended topical antibiotic for styes due to its effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus biofilms at high concentrations, as demonstrated in a study published in the American Journal of Rhinology 2. When treating a stye with moxifloxacin, it is essential to apply a small amount to the affected eyelid margin 2-3 times daily for 7-10 days.
- Before application, gently clean the area with warm water and mild soap, then dry completely.
- Apply the ointment using a clean fingertip or cotton swab, being careful not to touch the eye directly.
- Most styes are caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria infecting an eyelash follicle or oil gland, and moxifloxacin effectively targets this pathogen, especially in its biofilm form. While using the antibiotic, continue applying warm compresses to the stye for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times daily to help bring the infection to a head and promote drainage. If the stye doesn't improve within 48 hours of antibiotic treatment, worsens, affects vision, or is accompanied by fever, seek medical attention as oral antibiotics or incision and drainage may be necessary, as suggested by the study's findings on the effectiveness of high concentrations of antibiotics against biofilm infections 2.