Azithromycin eye solution

What is this medicine?

AZITHROMYCIN (az ith roe MYE sin) is a macrolide antibiotic. It is used to treat bacterial eye infections.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to any surface, including your eye. Tilt your head back slightly and pull your lower eyelid down with your index finger to form a pouch. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch. Close the eye gently to spread the drops. Your vision may blur for a few minutes. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Finish the full course that is prescribed even if you think your condition is better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 1 year old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• changes in vision

• eye irritation, pain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• bad taste in mouth

• burning, stinging, irritation when drops used

• congested nose

• dry eyes

• teary eyes

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without telling your prescriber or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store the unopened bottle in the refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Once opened for use, store between 2 and 25 degrees C (36 and 77 degrees F) for up to 14 days. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date or 14 days after opening the bottle, whichever comes first.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• wear contact lenses

• an unusual or allergic reaction to azithromycin, erythromycin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Do not wear contact lenses while you have an eye infection. Ask your doctor or health care professional when you can start wearing your contacts again.