Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment Tube Size
The small tube of erythromycin ophthalmic ointment contains 3.5 grams (1/8 oz). 1
Product Specifications
The FDA-approved erythromycin ophthalmic ointment 0.5% is commercially available in two sizes:
- Small tube: 3.5 g (1/8 oz) - This is the standard single-patient tube supplied in tamper-resistant packaging 1
- Large container: 1 g tin containers - Available in cartons of 50 units for institutional use 1
Clinical Context
The 3.5 g tube size is specifically designed for:
Neonatal prophylaxis: A new tube should be used for each infant when administering prophylaxis against gonococcal or chlamydial ophthalmia neonatorum 1. This single-use approach is emphasized in CDC guidelines, which state that "single-use tubes or ampules are preferable to multiple-use tubes" 2, 3, 4
Treatment of superficial ocular infections: The tube provides sufficient medication for a typical treatment course, with approximately 1 cm of ointment applied up to six times daily 1
Important Safety Note
The 3.5 g tube comes with tamper-resistant packaging and should not be used if the cap and neckring are not intact 1. Storage should be maintained between 15-25°C (59-77°F) 1.