What medicine treats trachoma?

Generally, medications used to treat trachoma include tetracycline eye ointment, rifampicin eye drops, sodium sulfacetamide eye drops, erythromycin eye ointment, azithromycin tablets, etc. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Tetracycline Eye Ointment: This is a tetracycline-class antibiotic that inhibits the growth and reproduction of *Chlamydia trachomatis*, making it suitable for use during the active phase of trachoma. The ointment should be applied inside the eyelid once nightly. Consistent use helps reduce ocular inflammation and decreases follicular and papillary hyperplasia. It is important to complete the full course of treatment to prevent recurrence.

2. Rifampicin Eye Drops: These have strong inhibitory effects against *Chlamydia trachomatis* and are commonly used in trachoma treatment. They act directly on the infected ocular site, relieving symptoms such as eye redness and foreign body sensation. The drops should be administered 3–4 times daily. During use, monitor for any signs of ocular irritation.

3. Sodium Sulfacetamide Eye Drops: A sulfonamide-class antibiotic that suppresses the activity of *Chlamydia trachomatis* and reduces ocular inflammatory responses. Suitable for mild trachoma or as adjunctive therapy, these drops are rapidly absorbed after instillation and help alleviate discomforts such as increased eye discharge and photophobia. Dosage should be carefully controlled according to instructions.

4. Erythromycin Eye Ointment: Effective against chlamydia with a relatively mild formulation, it is suitable for children or individuals with low tolerance to other medications. Applied inside the eyelid each night, it provides sustained local action, inhibiting chlamydial replication and aiding in the repair of damaged ocular tissues.

5. Azithromycin Tablets: An oral macrolide antibiotic, indicated for severe trachoma or cases where topical treatments are ineffective. It achieves systemic absorption to inhibit chlamydia, thereby shortening the disease course. Dosage and duration must strictly follow medical advice; self-adjustment of medication should be avoided.

Before using any eye medication, hands should be thoroughly cleaned, and the dropper or tube tip should not touch the eye to prevent contamination. If symptoms do not improve after 1–2 weeks of treatment, or if vision loss or eyelid deformity occurs, prompt medical consultation is necessary to adjust the treatment plan.