What medication is used to treat conjunctivitis?
Commonly used medications for the treatment of conjunctivitis include levofloxacin eye drops, acyclovir eye drops, sodium cromoglicate eye drops, tobramycin eye ointment, and fluorometholone eye drops. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Levofloxacin Eye Drops: This belongs to the quinolone class of antibiotics and is suitable for bacterial conjunctivitis. It inhibits bacterial proliferation and relieves symptoms such as redness, swelling, and increased discharge. It should be used for the full prescribed course to prevent recurrence due to premature discontinuation.
2. Acyclovir Eye Drops: An antiviral medication used for viral conjunctivitis. It suppresses viral replication and alleviates eye pain, tearing, and foreign body sensation. It is most effective when used early in the disease course. Treatment should continue for an additional 1–2 days after symptom relief to consolidate the effect.
3. Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops: An anti-allergic agent suitable for allergic conjunctivitis. It stabilizes mast cells and reduces the release of allergic mediators, thereby relieving itching and conjunctival congestion. It should be used prophylactically before symptom onset. It has a high safety profile with long-term use.
4. Tobramycin Eye Ointment: An aminoglycoside antibiotic ointment, suitable for nighttime use or when conjunctivitis is accompanied by eyelid inflammation. The ointment formulation provides prolonged action and forms a protective film on the ocular surface. Care should be taken to avoid contaminating the tube tip during application.
5. Fluorometholone Eye Drops: A corticosteroid eye drop indicated for allergic or severe inflammatory conjunctivitis. It rapidly reduces inflammatory responses. It must be used under medical supervision and only for short durations to avoid complications such as elevated intraocular pressure or cataract formation.
Before using any medication, the specific type of conjunctivitis should be clearly diagnosed; self-medication without proper diagnosis is not recommended. During treatment, maintain good ocular hygiene and avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent worsening of symptoms.