Azasite Ophthalmic (Azithromycin)

What is Azasite Ophthalmic?

Azasite ophthalmic (azithromycin) belongs to a class of drug known as macrolide antibiotic and is meant for ophthalmic use only.

What is Azasite Ophthalmic used for?

Azasite ophthalmic is used in the treatment of bacterial eye infections. It is important to note that the medicine will not treat fungal or viral infections.

How does Azasite Ophthalmic work?

Being an antibiotic, Azasite ophthalmic inhibits the growth of bacteria and thus helps in the treatment and prevention of bacterial infections.

How to use Azasite Ophthalmic

Azasite ophthalmic should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Using for longer periods or in larger amounts than prescribed is not advisable.

Before applying the eye drops wash your hands properly and remove your contact lenses, if any.

To apply the drop, you should tilt your head back, pull down your lower lid, look away from the dropper and put 1 drop into the eye. Close your eyes and gently press the inner corner of the eye for 2-3 minutes to prevent the drop from going into the tear duct. Maintain a gap of 5 minutes between subsequent drops.

Care should be taken that the dropper does not come in contact with your eyes, hands or any other body surface in order to prevent contamination of the dropper.

Azasite ophthalmic may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Hence wear your lenses at least 15 minutes after application of the drop.

Azasite ophthalmic should be applied at evenly spaced intervals to get the best results.

It may take up to 6 weeks for your condition to improve. Do not increase or stop the dose during this period without consultation with your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve even after 6 weeks or if it worsens contact your doctor immediately.

Azasite Ophthalmic warnings and precautions

Azasite ophthalmic is not administered to patients who are allergic to azithromycin.

The medication should preferably be used at the same time every day in order to maintain a constant level of antibiotic in the body. This facilitates the action of the drug.

Care should be taken to complete the full course of Azasite ophthalmic. The medication should not be stopped suddenly even if your condition improves within a few days. Doing so may allow the bacteria to resume their growth thus resulting into a relapse of the infection. The medication needs to be gradually decreased as per directions from your doctor. 

Pregnant and lactating mothers should discuss the possible risks and benefits of using Azasite ophthalmic with their doctor.

What do I do if I have missed a Azasite Ophthalmic dose?

If you have missed an Azasite ophthalmic dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Azasite Ophthalmic overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Azasite ophthalmic, consult your doctor immediately.

Azasite Ophthalmic interactions

Oral drugs and injections are not expected to interact with Azasite ophthalmic. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all the prescription, non-prescription, herbal drugs and vitamin-mineral supplements that you are taking.

Do not start using any new eye medication without consulting your doctor first.

Azasite Ophthalmic side effects

Side effects from Azasite ophthalmic include allergic reactions. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice severe irritation after using the eye-drops, drainage or crusting of eye, watery eyes, redness or swelling, increased sensitivity to light, signs of a new eye infection.

Mild burning or stinging sensation in the eye, nasal blockage are some common and less serious side effects of Azasite ophthalmic.