Azithromycin Ophthalmic Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 4, 2024.

Applies to azithromycin ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

Precautions

If your eye infection does not improve within a few days, or if it becomes worse, check with your doctor.

This medicine may cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Call your doctor right away if you or your child have a rash; itching; hives; hoarseness; shortness of breath; trouble breathing; trouble swallowing; or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after you take this medicine.

Serious skin reactions can occur with this medicine. Stop using this medicine and check with your doctor right away if you or your child have blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin; red skin lesions; severe acne or skin rash; sores or ulcers on the skin; or fever or chills while you are using this medicine.

Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine to avoid further eye irritation.

Serious side effects

Along with its needed effects, azithromycin ophthalmic may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking azithromycin ophthalmic:

Other side effects

Some side effects of azithromycin ophthalmic may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to azithromycin ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution.

Ocular adverse events

• Very common (10% or more): Ocular discomfort (pruritus, burning, stinging) upon instillation
• Common (1% to 10%): Eye irritation, blurred vision, sticky eye sensation, foreign body sensation upon instillation
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Conjunctival hyperemia, lacrimation increased upon instillation, erythema of the eyelid
• Frequency not reported: Ocular reactions (burning, irritation upon instillation, contact dermatitis, corneal erosion, dry eye, eye pain, itching, ocular discharge, punctate keratitis, reduced visual acuity)
• Postmarketing reports: Conjunctivitis, allergic conjunctivitis, keratitis, eyelid eczema, eyelid edema, eye allergy^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Hypersensitivity^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Hives/urticaria, rash, facial swelling, periocular swelling
• Postmarketing reports: Angioedema^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Dysgeusia^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Nasal congestion, sinusitis^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Azithromycin ophthalmic side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer