Online Pink Eye Treatment

The medication used to treat conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, depends entirely on its underlying cause, which is typically bacterial, viral, or allergic.

Bacterial Pink Eye Treatment

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial pink eye. Our providers may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments (e.g., Ciprofloxacin or Ofloxacin) to clear the infection and prevent its spread.

Viral Pink Eye Treatment

No specific prescription medication is needed for viral pink eye. It is similar to a common cold and usually clears up on its own. Treatment focuses on comfort using artificial tears and cold compresses to manage symptoms.

Allergic Pink Eye Treatment

Antihistamine eye drops (such as Olopatadine) or oral allergy medications are prescribed for allergic pink eye. These medications block the body’s reaction to allergens like pollen or pet dander.

Important Note on Online Prescriptions: Doctor On Demand can provide an online prescription for the appropriate antibiotics (for bacterial pink eye) or antihistamine/anti-inflammatory drops (for allergic pink eye) after a fast, same-day virtual diagnosis. Antibiotics are not effective for viral or allergic pink eye.

Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the thin, clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelid. It causes the eye to appear pink or red due to swollen blood vessels and can result in symptoms like redness, itching, discharge, and swelling. Pink eye can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, or irritants, and is highly contagious when caused by infections. While typically not serious, it can spread easily, especially among children, and may require different treatments depending on its underlying cause.

Treatment for pink eye depends on the cause. Bacterial pink eye is typically treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment, while viral pink eye usually clears up on its own with rest, cold compresses, and good hygiene. Allergic pink eye can be managed with antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops. It’s important to see a doctor to determine the cause and get the right treatment. With Doctor On Demand, you can speak to a licensed provider online and get a diagnosis and prescription—all from home.

Whether you need a prescription for pink eye depends on the type and severity of the condition:

• Viral pink eye: Usually doesn’t require a prescription and clears up on its own in 1-2 weeks
• Bacterial pink eye: May require prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments
• Allergic pink eye: Often treated with over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops, but severe cases may need prescription medications

For mild cases, over-the-counter treatments like artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help manage symptoms. However, you should consult a healthcare provider if you experience severe symptoms, such as eye pain, intense redness, or vision changes. They can determine if prescription medication is necessary for your specific case. Doctor On Demand doctors are available 24/7 and can send your pink eye prescription to your local pharmacy today.

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, typically presents with the following symptoms:

• Redness in the white part of the eye or inner eyelid
• Itching or burning sensation in the affected eye(s)
• Increased tearing or watery eyes
• Discharge that may be clear, white, yellow, or green
• Crusting of eyelids or lashes, especially upon waking
• Swelling of the eyelids or conjunctiva
• Gritty feeling or sensation of something in the eye
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Blurred vision in some cases

Pink eye symptoms can vary depending on the cause (viral, bacterial, allergic, or irritant) and may affect one or both eyes. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Our online doctors may be able to diagnose and treat your pink eye within minutes.

The duration of pink eye with medication varies depending on the type:

For bacterial pink eye:
With antibiotic treatment, symptoms typically improve within 24-48 hours. Most cases clear up in 2 to 5 days with antibiotics.

For viral pink eye:
Antiviral medication may be prescribed for severe cases, but most viral pink eye resolves on its own in 7 to 14 days.
Antibiotics are not effective against viral pink eye.

For allergic pink eye:
Symptoms often improve quickly with antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops.
It’s important to complete the full course of prescribed medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent reinfection or recurrence.

The duration of pink eye contagiousness after starting medication depends on the type of pink eye:

For bacterial pink eye:
It remains contagious for about 24-48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment.
Symptoms typically improve within 24-48 hours of starting antibiotics.

For viral pink eye:
It can remain contagious for 10 to 14 days, even with medication. Some cases may be contagious for up to 3 weeks.

For allergic pink eye:
It is not contagious at all. Generally, pink eye remains contagious as long as the eye continues to tear and produce discharge. It’s important to complete the full course of prescribed medication, even if symptoms improve, to prevent reinfection or recurrence. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice on when it’s safe to return to work, school, or daycare.