Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using azithromycin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.
Do not wear contact lenses while you are using this medicine or while you have the bacterial eye infection. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer's directions, and check with your doctor before you begin using them again.
If you are using this medication for the first time, hold the dropper upright and remove the cap. This will release any extra pressure in the dropper. Put the cap back on before shaking the dropper.
Before each use, hold the dropper upside down and shake once. With the dropper still upside down, remove the cap. Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place 1 drop into the pouch, usually twice daily (8 to 12 hours apart) for the first 2 days and then once daily for the next 5 days or as directed by your doctor. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed.
If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Continue using it for the full time prescribed. Stopping the medication too soon may result in a return of the infection.
Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.