Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Erythromycin (Ilotycin) and Ofloxacin (Ocuflox) are both antibiotics used to treat bacterial eye infections, but they belong to different classes and have distinct uses and application methods. Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic available as an eye ointment, typically applied up to six times a day, and is also used to prevent pink eye in newborns. In contrast, Ofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic available as eye drops, used multiple times a day depending on the condition being treated, such as pink eye or corneal ulcers. Erythromycin is generally well-tolerated with mild side effects like eye irritation, while Ofloxacin can cause temporary burning, discomfort, and other less common side effects like dry eyes and sensitivity to light. Erythromycin is easier to use in newborns, whereas Ofloxacin is approved for use in individuals aged one year and older. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics and require careful application to avoid contamination and ensure effectiveness.
Erythromycin eye ointment
Ofloxacin (Ocuflox)
Erythromycin eye ointment
Ofloxacin (Ocuflox)
Summary of Ilotycin vs. Ocuflox
Summary for Macrolide antibiotic
Prescription only
Erythromycin eye ointment is used to treat and prevent various bacterial eye infections, including pink eye in newborns. The typical dosage for this medication is to apply it in the affected eye(s) up to 6 times a day. Most people experience few to no side effects while using erythromycin eye ointment as directed.
Summary for Fluoroquinolone antibiotic
Prescription only
Ofloxacin (Ocuflox) is an eye drop medication that's approved for use in people ages 1 year and older. It's a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that treats conjunctivitis (pink eye) and corneal ulcers caused by bacterial infections. Ofloxacin (Ocuflox) is typically used multiple times per day, depending on the reason you need the eye drops and what day of treatment you're on. Side effects aren't common but can include a temporary burning sensation or discomfort in the eye.