
Can tetracycline eye ointment treat allergies?
Xiao Li is 28 years old and has recently developed redness and itching in his eyes. A doctor diagnosed him with ocular allergy. When purchasing medication at the pharmacy, the staff recommended tetracycline eye ointment. Can this medication treat allergies?

Tetracycline eye ointment is not specifically indicated for anti-allergic therapy, as its anti-allergic effect is relatively limited. The main component, tetracycline, has a broad-spectrum antibacterial effect and is commonly used to treat bacterial eye infections caused by susceptible organisms, such as conjunctivitis and keratitis. In addition, tetracycline eye ointment contains certain hormonal components, which provide it with some anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. However, it is not primarily intended for anti-allergic treatment, and its efficacy in this regard is limited.
Allergic eye diseases usually require the use of antihistamines, corticosteroid eye drops, or other medications specifically targeting allergic reactions to relieve symptoms. If a patient experiences ocular allergic symptoms such as redness, itching, or increased secretions, potential allergens should be avoided and medical attention sought promptly. It is not recommended to self-administer tetracycline eye ointment for ocular allergies without medical guidance, as inappropriate use may worsen symptoms or cause adverse reactions. Patients with allergic eye disease should also maintain good personal hygiene, keep the eyes clean, and avoid rubbing the eyes to prevent infection or aggravation of inflammation.