PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

• Tetracycline Hydrochloride 1% w/w (10 mg/g ointment)
• Ointment base (usually paraffin/mineral oil base)

Tetracycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that stops bacterial growth by inhibiting protein synthesis.

Use / Indication

Used for bacterial infections of the eye, including:

• Bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Blepharitis (eyelid infection)
• Trachoma (chronic chlamydial eye infection, in some settings)
• Minor superficial bacterial eye infections

It does NOT treat viral or allergic eye conditions.

Direction of Use

• Apply a thin strip (~1 cm) into the lower eyelid
• Usually 2–4 times daily (or as prescribed)
• Common practice:
• Eye drops in daytime
• Ointment at night (because it causes blurred vision)

Steps:

• Wash hands
• Pull down lower eyelid
• Apply ointment without touching tube tip to eye
• Close eye gently for 1–2 minutes

Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early.

Side Effects

Common:

• Temporary blurred vision
• Mild burning or stinging
• Eye irritation or redness
• Watery eyes

Less common:

• Itching or eyelid swelling
• Increased sensitivity to light

Rare:

• Allergic reactions (rash, severe irritation)
• Superinfection (overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms with prolonged use)

Warning

• For external eye use only
• Do NOT use if:
• Allergy to tetracyclines
• Stop and seek care if:
• Severe eye pain
• Worsening redness/swelling
• Vision changes
• Avoid unnecessary prolonged use → may lead to antibiotic resistance
• Not suitable for treating:
• Viral conjunctivitis
• Fungal eye infections

Interaction

• Very limited interactions (local eye use)
• Caution with:
• Other antibiotic eye products (avoid overlapping without guidance)
• Retinoids or strong topical eye irritants (may increase irritation)

Caution

• Temporary blurred vision is normal → avoid driving immediately after use
• Use only for prescribed duration
• Children and pregnant/breastfeeding users should use only under medical advice
• If no improvement within a few days, re-evaluation is needed
• Overuse of antibiotic eye ointments can reduce effectiveness over time