Contact your doctor immediately if you experience worsening eye pain, vision changes, or increased redness after starting doxycycline eye ointment. These could signal a serious infection requiring different treatment.
Seek medical attention also if:
- Symptoms don’t improve after 72 hours of treatment. You develop a new eye symptom, such as excessive tearing or discharge. You have a known allergy to tetracyclines.
Your doctor might consider these alternatives, depending on your specific condition:
- Erythromycin ointment: A common alternative for bacterial conjunctivitis. It’s generally well-tolerated. Bacitracin-polymyxin B ointment: Effective against various bacteria. This is often used for bacterial infections. Other antibiotic ointments or drops: The choice depends on the identified bacteria and your medical history. Steroid eye drops (used cautiously and under a doctor’s guidance): Sometimes added to treat inflammation along with antibiotics, but only if deemed appropriate.
Remember: Never self-treat eye infections. Always consult an ophthalmologist or your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent potential complications.
Proper diagnosis is key to selecting the right treatment. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully for optimal results. Complete the full course of prescribed medication, even if symptoms improve.
