Is it okay to use erythromycin ointment for rhinitis?

In general, erythromycin ointment can assist in the treatment of rhinitis to some extent, but it is not suitable for all types of rhinitis.

Erythromycin ointment is a broad-spectrum antibiotic primarily used to treat rhinitis caused by bacterial infections. For such rhinitis, erythromycin ointment can inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammatory responses in the nasal passages. Its oily consistency helps relieve nasal mucosal dryness and cracking caused by conditions such as dry rhinitis and atrophic rhinitis, thereby reducing the frequency of nosebleeds.

Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory condition of the nasal passages triggered by allergens, and erythromycin ointment has no specific effect on this type. Allergic rhinitis usually requires treatment with allergen immunotherapy, antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, and other medications. Viral rhinitis is generally caused by viral infections, and antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections; therefore, erythromycin ointment is also not suitable for this type of rhinitis.

It is recommended that patients consult a physician for a definitive diagnosis before using erythromycin ointment for rhinitis treatment, and use the medication only as directed by a doctor. Long-term use should be avoided, as prolonged antibiotic use may lead to drug resistance and side effects such as itching, burning, swelling, and allergic reactions. When using erythromycin ointment, the nasal cavity should first be cleaned, then an appropriate amount of the ointment applied inside the nasal cavity using a cotton swab, followed by gently massaging the sides of the nose to ensure even distribution of the medication.