What medication is good for the early stage of a stye?

Nov 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Commonly used medications for early-stage styes include levofloxacin eye drops, erythromycin eye ointment, tobramycin eye drops, chlortetracycline eye ointment, and cephalexin capsules. Targeted anti-infective and anti-inflammatory drugs are required to control inflammation. If symptoms do not improve after 3 days of medication, if swelling worsens, or if fever develops, prompt medical attention is recommended. Quinolone antibiotics are suitable for styes caused by bacterial infections.

Commonly used medications for the early stage of hordeolum include levofloxacin eye drops, erythromycin eye ointment, tobramycin eye drops, chlortetracycline eye ointment, and cephalexin capsules. Anti-infective and anti-inflammatory drugs should be selected according to the specific condition to control the progression of inflammation. If symptoms do not improve after 3 days of medication, or if swelling worsens or fever develops, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Levofloxacin Eye Drops: A quinolone-class antibacterial agent effective against bacterial infections causing hordeolum. It acts directly on the ocular lesion, inhibiting bacterial growth and rapidly reducing inflammatory responses such as redness, swelling, and pain.

2. Erythromycin Eye Ointment: A macrolide antibiotic with a creamy formulation that adheres well to ocular mucosa, providing sustained antibacterial action. Suitable for mild infections or in combination with eye drops to enhance local anti-infective effects.

3. Tobramycin Eye Drops: An aminoglycoside antibiotic with strong activity against Gram-negative bacteria. It effectively kills pathogenic ocular bacteria and relieves early symptoms such as eyelid redness, swelling, and tenderness.

4. Chlortetracycline Eye Ointment: A tetracycline-class broad-spectrum antibiotic applied to the inner eyelid or affected area to inhibit the growth of various bacteria. Suitable for mild cases of early hordeolum, helping to reduce local inflammatory irritation.

5. Cephalexin Capsules: Oral antibiotics used when infection is more extensive or accompanied by mild systemic symptoms. They exert antibacterial effects through systemic absorption and should be used cautiously to avoid misuse.

Wash hands thoroughly before applying medication to prevent contamination of the solution. Keep the eyes clean and dry, and avoid rubbing the eyes. Do not share medications or eye care items with others. Maintain a light diet during treatment and avoid spicy or irritating foods.