Treatment algorithm

Please note that formulations/routes and doses may differ between drug names and brands, drug formularies, or locations. Treatment recommendations are specific to patient groups: see disclaimer

ACUTE

allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)

1st line – supportive measures

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ACUTE
|
allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)
|
mild
1st line – 

supportive measures

Mild allergic conjunctivitis refers to itchy, watery, red eyes occurring seasonally and responding to supportive measures, including artificial tears and cool compresses.

Artificial tears help to dilute various allergens and inflammatory mediators that may be present on the ocular surface. Patients can also wear sunglasses as a barrier against allergens, avoid rubbing their eyes, and avoid known allergens. Hypoallergenic bedding, eyelid cleansers, bathing/showering before bedtime, and frequent washing of clothes may also be helpful.[1]​​

1st line – mast cell stabiliser ± antihistamine

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ACUTE
|
allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)
|
moderate
1st line – 

mast cell stabiliser ± antihistamine

Moderate allergic conjunctivitis refers to itchy, watery, red eyes that usually occur seasonally and respond to topical antihistamines (e.g., alcaftadine, pheniramine) and/or mast cell stabilisers (e.g., sodium cromoglicate, lodoxamide).[63][102][103]

Vasoconstrictors (such as naphazoline) are present in some topical antihistamine preparations for additional short-term relief of vascular injection.

Drugs with both antihistamine and mast cell stabilising activity include azelastine, bepotastine, epinastine, olopatadine, and ketotifen.[67][68][69]​

Oral antihistamines, which are longer-acting, may be used with, or instead of, topical antihistamines. The newer-generation oral antihistamines are preferred because they are less sedating. These include fexofenadine, loratadine, and cetirizine.

Although commonly used, oral antihistamines may lead to or worsen dry eye syndrome, and impair the tear film, and so worsen allergic conjunctivitis. Simultaneous use of artificial tears may improve tear deficiency and dilute allergens and inflammatory mediators on the eye's surface.[1]​​

Primary options

sodium cromoglicate ophthalmic: (2%) 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 4-6 hours

or

lodoxamide ophthalmic: (0.1%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) four times daily

-- AND / OR --

alcaftadine ophthalmic: (0.25%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once daily

or

naphazoline/pheniramine ophthalmic: (0.025%/0.3%) children ≥6 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) up to four times daily

or

azelastine ophthalmic: (0.05%) children ≥3 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

or

bepotastine ophthalmic: (1.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

or

epinastine ophthalmic: (0.05%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

or

olopatadine ophthalmic: (0.1%) children ≥3 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily; (0.2%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once daily

or

ketotifen ophthalmic: (0.025%) children ≥3 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

-- AND / OR --

cetirizine: children 6-11 months of age: 2.5 mg orally once daily when required; children 1-5 years of age: 2.5 to 5 mg/day orally when required given in 1-2 divided doses; children ≥6 years of age and adults: 5-10 mg orally once daily when required

or

loratadine: children 2-5 years of age: 5 mg orally once daily when required; children ≥6 years of age and adults: 10 mg orally once daily when required

or

fexofenadine: children 2-11 years of age: 30 mg orally twice daily when required; children ≥12 years of age and adults: 180 mg orally once daily or 60 mg twice daily when required

Plus – supportive measures

Back
ACUTE
|
allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)
|
moderate
Plus – 

supportive measures

Treatment recommended for ALL patients in selected patient group

Supportive measures include artificial tears and cool compresses. Artificial tears help to dilute various allergens and inflammatory mediators that may be present on the ocular surface. Patients can also wear sunglasses as a barrier against allergens, avoid rubbing their eyes, and avoid known allergens. Hypoallergenic bedding, eyelid cleansers, bathing/showering before bedtime, and frequent washing of clothes may also be helpful.[1]​​

Consider – topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Back
ACUTE
|
allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)
|
moderate
Consider – 

topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Additional treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group

Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ketorolac, diclofenac, bromfenac, and nepafenac, can be added if further anti-inflammatory effect is required.

Primary options

ketorolac ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) four times daily

OR

nepafenac ophthalmic: (0.1%) children ≥10 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) three times daily; (0.3%) children ≥10 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once daily

OR

diclofenac ophthalmic: (0.1%) adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) four times daily

OR

bromfenac ophthalmic: (0.09%) adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once or twice daily (depending on formulation)

1st line – mast cell stabiliser ± antihistamine

Back
ACUTE
|
allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)
|
severe
1st line – 

mast cell stabiliser ± antihistamine

Severe allergic disease is regarded as the presence of symptoms year round and is associated with greater inflammation than moderate disease.

Use topical mast cell stabilisers (e.g., sodium cromoglicate, lodoxamide) and/or topical antihistamines (e.g., alcaftadine, pheniramine) in addition to a topical corticosteroid, or ciclosporin.[63][102][103]

Vasoconstrictors (such as naphazoline) are present in some topical antihistamine preparations for additional short-term relief of vascular injection.

Drugs with both antihistamine and mast cell stabilising activity include azelastine, bepotastine, epinastine, olopatadine, and ketotifen.[1][67][68][69]​​

Oral antihistamines, which are longer-acting, may be used with, or instead of, topical antihistamines. The newer-generation oral antihistamines are preferred because they are less sedating. These include fexofenadine, loratadine, and cetirizine.

Although commonly used, oral antihistamines may lead to or worsen dry eye syndrome, and impair the tear film, and so worsen allergic conjunctivitis. Simultaneous use of artificial tears may improve tear deficiency and dilute allergens and inflammatory mediators on the eye's surface.[1][33]​​

Primary options

sodium cromoglicate ophthalmic: (2%) 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 4-6 hours

or

lodoxamide ophthalmic: (0.1%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) four times daily

-- AND / OR --

alcaftadine ophthalmic: (0.25%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once daily

or

naphazoline/pheniramine ophthalmic: (0.025%/0.3%) children ≥6 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) up to four times daily

or

azelastine ophthalmic: (0.05%) children ≥3 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

or

bepotastine ophthalmic: (1.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

or

epinastine ophthalmic: (0.05%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

or

olopatadine ophthalmic: (0.1%) children ≥3 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily; (0.2%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once daily

or

ketotifen ophthalmic: (0.025%) children ≥3 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

-- AND / OR --

cetirizine: children 6-11 months of age: 2.5 mg orally once daily when required; children 1-5 years of age: 2.5 to 5 mg/day orally when required given in 1-2 divided doses; children ≥6 years of age and adults: 5-10 mg orally once daily when required

or

loratadine: children 2-5 years of age: 5 mg orally once daily when required; children ≥6 years of age and adults: 10 mg orally once daily when required

or

fexofenadine: children 2-11 years of age: 30 mg orally twice daily when required; children ≥12 years of age and adults: 180 mg orally once daily or 60 mg twice daily when required

Plus – topical corticosteroid or ciclosporin

Back
ACUTE
|
allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)
|
severe
Plus – 

topical corticosteroid or ciclosporin

Treatment recommended for ALL patients in selected patient group

Severe or resistant allergic disease may require additional treatment with a brief course (1 to 2 weeks) of topical corticosteroids.[1]​​[73] This treatment can be used together with topical or oral antihistamines and mast cell stabilisers. Consider referral to a consultant eye physician. Only ophthalmic clinicians should prescribe topical corticosteroids.

Topical ciclosporin provides relief with corticosteroid-sparing effects. It can be considered second line instead of corticosteroids for ocular dryness and inflammation in severe allergic conjunctivitis. It may also be particularly effective as a second-line treatment for severe atopic or vernal conjunctivitis.​[1][8][9][13]​​​[77][78][79][80]​​

Primary options

loteprednol ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) four times daily

OR

prednisolone ophthalmic: (1%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) two to four times daily

Secondary options

ciclosporin ophthalmic: (0.05% or 0.09% or 0.01% solution) adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

Plus – supportive measures

Back
ACUTE
|
allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)
|
severe
Plus – 

supportive measures

Treatment recommended for ALL patients in selected patient group

Supportive measures include artificial tears and cool compresses. Artificial tears help to dilute various allergens and inflammatory mediators that may be present on the ocular surface. Patients can also wear sunglasses as a barrier against allergens, avoid rubbing their eyes, and avoid known allergens. Hypoallergenic bedding, eyelid cleansers, bathing/showering before bedtime, and frequent washing of clothes may also be helpful.[1]​​

Consider – topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Back
ACUTE
|
allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)
|
severe
Consider – 

topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug

Additional treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group

Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ketorolac, diclofenac, bromfenac, and nepafenac, can be added if necessary if further anti-inflammatory effect is required.

Primary options

ketorolac ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) four times daily

OR

nepafenac ophthalmic: (0.1%) children ≥10 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) three times daily; (0.3%) children ≥10 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once daily

OR

diclofenac ophthalmic: (0.1%) adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) four times daily

OR

bromfenac ophthalmic: (0.09%) adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once or twice daily (depending on formulation)

Consider – allergen-specific immunotherapy

Back
ACUTE
|
allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal/perennial)
|
severe
Consider – 

allergen-specific immunotherapy

Additional treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group

Allergen-specific immunotherapy may be an option for patients who have disease that cannot be controlled by topical medications and oral antihistamines.[1]​​

bacterial conjunctivitis

1st line – consider topical broad-spectrum antibiotics

Back
ACUTE
|
bacterial conjunctivitis
|
mild-to-moderate
1st line – 

consider topical broad-spectrum antibiotics

Mild bacterial conjunctivitis is usually self-limiting and may not require antibiotic therapy.[1]​ However, compared with placebo, antibiotics are associated with modestly improved resolution of symptoms or signs by days 4 to 9.[81]​​[82] [ Cochrane Clinical Answers logo ] ​​​​

Consider broad-spectrum topical antibiotics such as erythromycin, azithromycin, or polymyxin/trimethoprim as a first-line therapy.[81]​​[85][86][87]

Alternatives include bacitracin, polymyxin/bacitracin, or sulfacetamide.[81]​​

Antibiotics should be continued for 7 to 10 days.

Primary options

azithromycin ophthalmic: (1%) children ≥1 year of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily for 2 days, then once daily for 5 days

OR

erythromycin ophthalmic: (0.5%) children and adults: apply to the affected eye(s) up to six times daily

OR

polymyxin B/trimethoprim ophthalmic: (10,000 units/mL; 1 mg/mL) children ≥2 months of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) every 3 hours up to six times daily

Secondary options

bacitracin ophthalmic: (500 units/g) children and adults: apply to the affected eye(s) every 3-4 hours

OR

sulfacetamide ophthalmic: (10% solution) children ≥2 months of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2-3 hours; (10% ointment) children ≥2 months of age and adults: apply to the affected eye(s) every 3-4 hours and at bedtime

OR

bacitracin/ polymyxin B ophthalmic: (500 units/g; 10,000 units/g) children and adults: apply to the affected eye(s) every 3-4 hours

1st line – topical fluoroquinolone

Back
ACUTE
|
bacterial conjunctivitis
|
moderate-to-severe; resistance to other antibiotics; immunocompromised
1st line – 

topical fluoroquinolone

Consider topical fluoroquinolones for more severe bacterial eye infections. They can also be used if bacterial resistance to other antibacterials is known. Immunocompromised patients should be started on a topical fluoroquinolone as a first-line therapy.[1]​​​[83][88][89][94][95]

Antibiotics should be continued for 7 days.

Primary options

besifloxacin ophthalmic: (0.6%) children ≥1 year of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) three times daily

OR

ofloxacin ophthalmic: (0.3%) children ≥1 year of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2-4 hours for 2 days, then four times daily

OR

ciprofloxacin ophthalmic: (0.3%) children and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours for 2 days, then every 4 hours

OR

levofloxacin ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥6 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours up to eight times daily for 2 days, then every 4 hours up to four times daily

OR

moxifloxacin ophthalmic: (0.5%) children and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) three times daily

OR

gatifloxacin ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥1 year of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours up to eight times daily for 1 day, then two to four times daily

1st line – topical plus systemic antibiotics

Back
ACUTE
|
bacterial conjunctivitis
|
hyperacute (gonococcal)
1st line – 

topical plus systemic antibiotics

Hyperacute bacterial conjunctivitis is likely to be caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Requires systemic treatment with single-dose ceftriaxone and simultaneous treatment for chlamydial co-infection with oral doxycycline or azithromycin.[1]​​[96]

Topical treatment with bacitracin or ciprofloxacin is usually used in conjunction with oral therapy.[1]​​

Please refer to our topic on gonorrhoea infection for drug regimens.

chlamydial conjunctivitis (inclusion)

1st line – topical plus systemic antibiotics

Back
ACUTE
|
chlamydial conjunctivitis (inclusion)
1st line – 

topical plus systemic antibiotics

Chlamydial conjunctivitis that occurs in developed countries is also known as 'inclusion conjunctivitis'. It is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis serotypes D to K and is transmitted sexually. Chlamydial conjunctivitis caused by C trachomatis serotypes A, B, and C is known as trachoma and is mainly limited to areas without adequate access to clean water and sanitation.[1]​ For more information on trachoma, please see Trachoma.

Chlamydial conjunctivitis requires treatment with oral antibiotics. Topical antibiotics are also usually used.[1]​​

Primary options

azithromycin: children <45 kg: 20 mg/kg orally as a single dose, maximum 1 g/dose; children >45 kg and adults: 1 g orally as a single dose

or

doxycycline: children ≥8 years of age and adults: 100 mg orally twice daily for 7 days

-- AND --

azithromycin ophthalmic: (1%) children ≥1 year of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily for 2 days, then once daily for 5 days

or

erythromycin ophthalmic: (0.5%) children and adults: apply to the affected eye(s) up to six times daily

viral conjunctivitis

1st line – topical antihistamine

Back
ACUTE
|
viral conjunctivitis
|
adenoviral
1st line – 

topical antihistamine

Symptomatic relief of itching can be achieved by using topical antihistamines.

Primary options

alcaftadine ophthalmic: (0.25%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once daily

OR

naphazoline/pheniramine ophthalmic: (0.025%/0.3%) children ≥6 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) up to four times daily

OR

azelastine ophthalmic: (0.05%) children ≥3 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

OR

bepotastine ophthalmic: (1.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

OR

epinastine ophthalmic: (0.05%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

OR

olopatadine ophthalmic: (0.1%) children ≥3 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily; (0.2%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) once daily

OR

ketotifen ophthalmic: (0.025%) children ≥3 years of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily

Plus – supportive measures

Back
ACUTE
|
viral conjunctivitis
|
adenoviral
Plus – 

supportive measures

Treatment recommended for ALL patients in selected patient group

Supportive measures include artificial tears and cool compresses.

A cool, damp towel can be placed over the eye area for symptomatic relief.

Oral analgesics may also provide relief.[1]​​

Consider – topical corticosteroid

Back
ACUTE
|
viral conjunctivitis
|
adenoviral
Consider – 

topical corticosteroid

Additional treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group

Adenoviral conjunctivitis associated with the presence of a pseudomembrane or corneal subepithelial infiltrates requires treatment with topical corticosteroids. Only ophthalmic clinicians should prescribe topical corticosteroids.

Long-term ocular risks from corticosteroids include delayed wound healing, secondary infection, elevated intraocular pressure, and formation of cataract; loteprednol has fewer adverse effects than prednisolone.

Primary options

loteprednol ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) four times daily

OR

prednisolone ophthalmic: (1%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) two to four times daily

Consider – topical ganciclovir

Back
ACUTE
|
viral conjunctivitis
|
adenoviral
Consider – 

topical ganciclovir

Additional treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group

Topical ganciclovir may be considered for confirmed adenovirus, although this use is off label.[97][98]

Primary options

ganciclovir ophthalmic: (0.15%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: consult specialist for guidance on dose

1st line – observation ± topical or oral antivirals

Back
ACUTE
|
viral conjunctivitis
|
herpes simplex virus
1st line – 

observation ± topical or oral antivirals

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) conjunctivitis is usually self-limiting, but may need treatment with topical or oral antivirals in more severe disease, particularly if corneal involvement is suspected.[1]​ For the management of HSV keratitis, please see Keratitis.

1st line – prompt referral to an ophthalmologist

Back
ACUTE
|
viral conjunctivitis
|
varicella zoster virus
1st line – 

prompt referral to an ophthalmologist

Prompt referral to an ophthalmologist is required for all patients who have eye manifestations of herpes zoster infection.[99] See Herpes zoster infection.

1st line – observation ± removal of lesions

Back
ACUTE
|
viral conjunctivitis
|
molluscum contagiosum
1st line – 

observation ± removal of lesions

Lesions generally resolve over time; the natural course of infection is spontaneous clearance in 1-2 years in most immunocompetent patients, with more prolonged illness in immunocompromised patients. The lesions may need to be removed in symptomatic patients.[1]​​

neonatal conjunctivitis

1st line – immediate referral to an ophthalmologist

Back
ACUTE
|
neonatal conjunctivitis
1st line – 

immediate referral to an ophthalmologist

This is conjunctival inflammation occurring within the first 30 days of life. It is also known as ophthalmia neonatorum. It is usually a mild illness. However, untreated infection (for example, with gonococcus, chlamydia, pseudomonas, or herpes) can lead to sight-threatening complications and potentially serious systemic infection.​[100] Complications of neonatal conjunctivitis due to chlamydia include superficial corneal vascularisation, conjunctival scarring, and pneumonia. Complications due to gonorrhoeal infections include corneal scarring, ulceration, panophthalmitis, perforation of the globe, and permanent visual impairment.​[100][101] Patients with suspected neonatal conjunctivitis should be referred immediately to an ophthalmologist.[1]

contact lens related

1st line – topical corticosteroid

Back
ACUTE
|
contact lens related
1st line – 

topical corticosteroid

A brief course (1 to 2 weeks) of a topical corticosteroid can be prescribed to reduce irritation and inflammation. Only ophthalmic clinicians should prescribe topical corticosteroids. Contact lens wear should be discontinued for 2 or more weeks, and the lens care regimen should be reviewed and changed to a preservative-free lens care system. Contact lens-related keratoconjunctivitis can potentially impact visual function, so referral to an eye specialist should be considered.[1]​​

Primary options

loteprednol ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) four times daily

OR

prednisolone ophthalmic: (1%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) two to four times daily

Consider – topical fluoroquinolone

Back
ACUTE
|
contact lens related
Consider – 

topical fluoroquinolone

Additional treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group

If bacterial, topical fluoroquinolones should be prescribed.[1]​​​[83][88][89][90][94][95]

Antibiotics should be continued for 7 days.

Primary options

besifloxacin ophthalmic: (0.6%) children ≥1 year of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) three times daily

OR

ofloxacin ophthalmic: (0.3%) children ≥1 year of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2-4 hours for 2 days, then four times daily

OR

ciprofloxacin ophthalmic: (0.3%) children and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours for 2 days, then every 4 hours

OR

levofloxacin ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥6 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours up to eight times daily for 2 days, then every 4 hours up to four times daily

OR

moxifloxacin ophthalmic: (0.5%) children and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) three times daily

OR

gatifloxacin ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥1 year of age and adults: 1 drop into the affected eye(s) every 2 hours up to eight times daily for 1 day, then two to four times daily

mechanical conjunctivitis

1st line – supportive measures

Back
ACUTE
|
mechanical conjunctivitis
1st line – 

supportive measures

Ocular lubricants may help in managing mild cases.[1]​​

Temporary relief of floppy eyelid syndrome may be achieved by taping the patient's eyelids shut or by having the patient wear a protective shield while sleeping.[1]​​

Consider – surgery

Back
ACUTE
|
mechanical conjunctivitis
Consider – 

surgery

Additional treatment recommended for SOME patients in selected patient group

Surgical procedures such as full-thickness horizontal shortening of the upper eyelid, to prevent the upper eyelid from overlapping, can be considered for more severe cases.​[1]

toxic/chemical conjunctivitis

1st line – eye irrigation and artificial tears ± corticosteroid

Back
ACUTE
|
toxic/chemical conjunctivitis
1st line – 

eye irrigation and artificial tears ± corticosteroid

The eye should be immediately flushed following any exposure and the pH of the tears checked. Flushing should occur until the pH is 7.

Artificial tears should be used frequently to provide symptomatic relief.

A short course of topical corticosteroids can be considered if inflammation persists. Only ophthalmic clinicians should prescribe topical corticosteroids.

Primary options

loteprednol ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) four times daily

OR

prednisolone ophthalmic: (1%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) two to four times daily

medicine-related conjunctivitis

1st line – discontinue medication ± artificial tears ± corticosteroid

Back
ACUTE
|
medicine-related conjunctivitis
1st line – 

discontinue medication ± artificial tears ± corticosteroid

Discontinuation of the drug causing medication-induced conjunctivitis usually results in gradual resolution of symptoms over several weeks or months.

Preservative-free artificial tears may provide symptomatic relief.

If severe inflammation of the conjunctiva or eyelid is present, a brief course of topical corticosteroids can be considered. However, only ophthalmic clinicians should prescribe topical corticosteroids.

Primary options

loteprednol ophthalmic: (0.5%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) four times daily

OR

prednisolone ophthalmic: (1%) children ≥2 years of age and adults: 1-2 drops into the affected eye(s) two to four times daily

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Please note that formulations/routes and doses may differ between drug names and brands, drug formularies, or locations. Treatment recommendations are specific to patient groups. See disclaimer

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