From the FDA Drug Label
In the treatment of superficial ocular infections, erythromycin ophthalmic ointment approximately 1 cm in length should be applied directly to the infected eye(s) up to six times daily, depending on the severity of the infection. The ointment should be applied directly into the conjunctival sac 1 to 3 times daily.
The recommended treatment for a stye (hordeolum) is applying erythromycin ophthalmic ointment or bacitracin ophthalmic ointment directly to the infected eye, with the following dosages:
- Erythromycin: approximately 1 cm in length, up to six times daily, depending on the severity of the infection 1
- Bacitracin: 1 to 3 times daily 2 Key points:
- Apply ointment directly to the infected eye
- Follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions
- Ensure the ointment is not flushed from the eye following instillation
From the Research
The recommended treatment for a stye (hordeolum) primarily involves applying a moist-heat generating eye mask (microwavable or self-heating) to the affected eyelid for at least 10 minutes, prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions, to help bring the stye to a head and promote drainage. This approach is supported by recent evidence on warm compress therapy in meibomian gland dysfunction, which suggests that such treatments can significantly improve tear quality and relieve symptoms associated with dry eyes 3.
When treating a stye, it is essential to keep the eyelid clean by washing with mild soap and water, and to avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until the stye resolves. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (200-400mg every 4-6 hours) or acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours) can help manage discomfort. Most styes resolve within 7-10 days with these home treatments.
Key considerations in the treatment of a stye include:
- Applying warm compresses to promote drainage and healing
- Maintaining eyelid hygiene to prevent infection spread
- Avoiding irritants like eye makeup and contact lenses
- Managing pain with over-the-counter medications as needed
- Seeking medical attention if the stye persists, worsens, or is accompanied by concerning symptoms like fever or vision changes, as these may require prescription antibiotic eye ointments or oral antibiotics 3.
It's crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the eye mask and to be consistent with the treatment to achieve the best outcomes, as evidence suggests that decreased patient adherence to therapy can occur with increased usage frequencies 3.