Best antibiotics for pink eye
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.
First-line options
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.
If you’re penicillin-allergic, or first-line fails
A widely used topical (ophthalmic) fluoroquinolone.
Erythromycin ointment
An older topical option, often used in children.
When antibiotics aren’t needed
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.
FAQ
- What is the best antibiotic for pink eye?
- There's rarely one "best" — the first-line options per US guidelines are moxifloxacin eye drops, ofloxacin eye drops, azithromycin eye drops. The right choice depends on the specific infection, local resistance, and any allergies, and it's decided by a clinician. Antibiotics are prescription-only.
- Can I get antibiotics for pink eye without a prescription?
- No. Antibiotics are prescription-only in the US for good reason — the wrong drug or an unnecessary course drives resistance and side effects. Never use leftover antibiotics or someone else's. See a clinician or a telehealth provider.
- What if I'm allergic to penicillin?
- Guideline alternatives include ciprofloxacin eye drops; erythromycin ointment. Tell your clinician the exact reaction you had — most reported penicillin "allergies" aren't true allergies.
Antibiotics for other infections
Source
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.