Oral antibiotic therapy in eye care involves taking systemic antibiotics by mouth to treat ocular or periocular infections or to modulate lid and meibomian gland disease. The choice of drug and duration depends on the condition.
Common Indications
Oral antibiotics are used for conditions such as preseptal or orbital cellulitis, severe blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, rosacea-related eye disease, and some chlamydial infections. They provide broader tissue penetration than topical drops alone.
- Tetracyclines like doxycycline are often prescribed in low doses for their anti‑inflammatory effects on glands
- Higher doses and different agents are used for acute bacterial infections
- Systemic therapy may be combined with topical treatments
- Course length ranges from days to several months depending on indication
Monitoring and Side Effects
Because oral antibiotics act throughout the body, potential gastrointestinal upset, allergy, photosensitivity, and interactions with other medications must be considered. Long-term courses may require blood tests or additional monitoring.
- Patients should follow dosing instructions carefully, including with food or sun precautions where advised
- Pregnancy, age, and other health conditions influence antibiotic choice
- Unnecessary or incorrect use can promote resistance
- Any severe rash, breathing difficulty, or persistent diarrhoea requires urgent medical attention
