Azithral Eye Ointment

✅ Active Ingredient Overview Table:

*Exact ointment form not marketed; AzaSite is available as 1% solution in the US.

🌿 What is Azithral Eye Ointment 1%?

Azithral Eye Ointment contains Azithromycin, a macrolide antibiotic, formulated as a sterile ophthalmic ointment to treat bacterial conjunctivitis caused by susceptible strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Azithromycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, providing broad-spectrum coverage and persistence in ocular tissues. The ointment base ensures sustained drug contact with the conjunctiva, improving efficacy and adherence compared to drops.

🧬 Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action

💡 Indications & Dosage

• Apply a thin strip (~1 cm) of Azithral ointment into the lower conjunctival sac of the affected eye(s) twice daily (morning and bedtime) for 3 days.
• Total duration: 3 days.
• Administration: Wash hands thoroughly. Instill ointment avoiding direct contact of tube tip with eye. Close eyelids gently for 1–2 minutes. Keep eyes closed for 1–2 minutes to allow ointment distribution.
• Missed Dose: Administer as soon as remembered; do not apply extra if near time for next dose.
• Duration: Complete full 3-day course even if symptoms improve by day 2 to prevent resistance and recurrence.

⚠️ Warnings & Side Effects

Local (Common):

• Transient blurred vision immediately after application
• Mild ocular irritation, burning or stinging
• Watery or sticky eyes

Less Common:

• Eyelid crusting
• Eye itching or redness

Serious (Rare):

• Hypersensitivity reactions (urticaria, angioedema, anaphylaxis)
• Secondary fungal or resistant bacterial infections

Precautions:

• Hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in patients with known allergy to macrolide antibiotics.
• Contact Lens Use: Remove soft contact lenses prior to application; may resume 15 minutes post-application if no irritation.
• Corneal Ulceration: Not indicated for corneal ulcers; consult ophthalmologist if deeper infection suspected.
• Drug Interactions: Minimal systemic absorption reduces risk, but caution with concurrent systemic macrolides.
• Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy established in children ≥1 year; not studied in infants <1 year.
• Pregnancy & Lactation: Category B; use only if benefit justifies potential risk.

🩺 Storage Instructions

Store Azithral Eye Ointment at 2–25°C (36–77°F). Protect from light. Once opened, discard after 28 days. Do not freeze. Keep cap tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children.

🌐 Availability & Purchasing

• United States: No FDA-approved azithromycin ophthalmic ointment; AzaSite 1% solution is available. Prescription required.
• United Kingdom & EU: Prescription-only; azithromycin eye drops used; ointment form less common.
• Australia: Prescription necessary; ophthalmic azithromycin formulations available in drops.

Importing Azithral from India:
Purchasing Azithral Eye Ointment from India may reduce treatment costs. Ensure compliance with local import regulations and maintain a valid prescription. Verify product authenticity to avoid counterfeit ophthalmic preparations.

🔗 Authoritative Resources

• FDA: Ophthalmic Antibiotics Overview
• Drugs.com: Azithromycin Ophthalmic Monograph

🔗 Internal Links to Related Ophthalmic Therapies (Indian Brands)

🎥 Educational Video on Azithromycin Ophthalmic Use

👩‍⚕️ Expert Insight: Dr. Meera Sharma, Ophthalmologist

“Azithral Eye Ointment’s sustained-release ointment formulation ensures prolonged antibiotic contact with the conjunctiva, enhancing bacterial clearance and improving patient compliance. Initiate treatment promptly at symptom onset and continue full course to prevent recurrence.”