Pink eye is often viral or allergic and doesn't need antibiotics. Bacterial conjunctivitis is frequently self-limited too, but antibiotic eye drops can shorten it and are commonly prescribed — especially with thick discharge.
What guidelines recommend to try first. Tap one we rate for its independent monograph.
A common topical fluoroquinolone for bacterial conjunctivitis.
Another topical fluoroquinolone option.
A topical macrolide drop option.
A widely used topical fluoroquinolone.
Erythromycin ointment
An older topical option, often used in children.
Viral and allergic pink eye won't respond to antibiotics — hygiene and, for allergy, antihistamine drops are the answer. A clinician can tell them apart.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis — MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine) ↗
General reference, not medical advice. Antibiotics are prescription-only; the right one depends on the specific infection, local resistance, your allergies, and your clinician’s judgment. Don’t self-treat, and never use leftover antibiotics or someone else’s — that drives resistance and can be dangerous. See a licensed clinician.