From the FDA Drug Label
Directions adults and children 2 years of age and older: clean the affected area apply a small amount of this product (an amount equal to the surface area of the tip of a finger) on the area 1 to 3 times daily may be covered with a sterile bandage children under 2 years of age: ask a doctor
The management for chronic hordeolum (stye) using bacitracin (TOP) involves:
- Cleaning the affected area
- Applying a small amount of the product (equal to the surface area of the tip of a finger)
- Applying the product 1 to 3 times daily
- The affected area may be covered with a sterile bandage For children under 2 years of age, it is recommended to ask a doctor 1
From the Research
The management of a chronic hordeolum (stye) typically involves warm compresses applied to the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes, 4-6 times daily to promote drainage and healing, as supported by the most recent evidence on warm compress therapy in meibomian gland dysfunction 2. The use of warm compresses is based on the principle of increasing blood flow to the area, which accelerates the natural resolution process of the hordeolum.
- Key points to consider in the management of chronic hordeolum include:
- Application of warm compresses for at least 10 minutes, with moist-heat generating compresses showing superior heat retention and therapeutic effects 2
- Topical antibiotic ointments such as erythromycin or bacitracin may be applied to the eyelid margin 2-3 times daily for 7-10 days for persistent cases
- Surgical intervention, including incision and drainage, may be necessary if the hordeolum does not respond to conservative measures within 1-2 weeks or if it recurs frequently
- Oral antibiotics such as dicloxacillin or cephalexin may be prescribed for cases with significant surrounding cellulitis or systemic symptoms
- Patients should avoid eye makeup and contact lenses during treatment and practice good eyelid hygiene by gently cleansing the eyelids daily with baby shampoo diluted with warm water However, the addition of an antibiotic to conservative measures for a chalazion or hordeolum was not associated with an increased likelihood of treatment success, as shown in a recent study 3.
- Underlying conditions such as blepharitis, rosacea, or diabetes should be addressed to prevent recurrence of hordeola. It is essential to note that the evidence on the management of chronic hordeolum is largely based on clinical experience and expert opinion, with limited high-quality studies available 4, 5, 6.
- Therefore, the management of chronic hordeolum should be individualized, taking into account the patient's specific needs and circumstances.