What Is the Best Treatment for Pink Eye?

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent layer that lines the white part of the eye and the inner eyelid. It’s one of the most common and contagious eye conditions worldwide. Pink eye can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens, and the best pink eye treatment depends on the type.

What Is the Treatment for Pink Eye?

1. Bacterial Pink Eye

This type produces thick yellow, white, or green eye discharge and often starts in one eye. It is typically treated with prescription antibiotics:

• Erythromycin ointment
• Polymyxin B/Trimethoprim drops
• Ciprofloxacin drops for contact lens users

Symptoms usually improve in 1–2 days and clear up within 5–7 days with treatment.

2. Viral Pink Eye

This form often begins with one eye and spreads to the other. It typically causes watery discharge, redness, and sensitivity to light. There’s no cure, but treatment focuses on symptom relief:

• Artificial tears
• Cool compresses
• Strict hygiene to prevent the spread

Most cases resolve within 7–14 days.

3. Allergic Pink Eye

Triggered by pollen, dust, or pet dander. This type affects both eyes and is not contagious.

• Antihistamine drops (e.g., ketotifen)
• Mast cell stabilizers
• Oral antihistamines for systemic allergies

Avoid allergens and rinse eyes with saline for additional relief.

What Are the Treatments for Pink Eye in Adults?

Adults can use all the treatments mentioned above based on the type of pink eye. Additional recommendations include:

• Avoiding contact lenses during infection
• Replacing eye makeup and contact lens cases
• Using sterile wipes to clean the discharge

Is There an Over-the-Counter Treatment for Pink Eye?

Yes. OTC treatments can help relieve symptoms of mild or allergic pink eye:

• Lubricating eye drops
• Antihistamine eye drops
• Cold compresses

Note: These do not cure bacterial or viral infections but can ease discomfort.

Can Pink Eye Go Away Without Treatment?

• Viral pink eye usually clears up in 7–10 days without treatment.
• Mild bacterial pink eye can resolve on its own, but antibiotics speed recovery.
• Allergic pink eye may persist until allergens are removed or treated.

When Should You See a Doctor?

• Symptoms last more than a week
• Severe pain or blurred vision
• Symptoms worsen despite OTC treatments
• You wear contact lenses regularly

Conclusion

The best treatment for pink eye depends entirely on the cause. Viral and allergic types may improve with at-home care, but bacterial conjunctivitis often needs prescription drops. If symptoms don’t improve in a couple of days, talk to a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis.

FAQs: Pink Eye Treatment Basics

What is the best treatment for pink eye?

Depends on the type. Antibiotics for bacterial, antihistamines for allergic, and rest for viral.

What are the treatments for pink eye in adults?

Adults may need antibiotics, antihistamines, or symptom-relief drops depending on the cause.

Is there an over-the-counter treatment for pink eye?

Yes. Lubricating drops and antihistamine drops can help with mild or allergic pink eye.

Does pink eye require treatment?

Not always. Viral and mild bacterial cases can resolve without medication.

Can pink eye go away without treatment?

Yes, especially viral and allergic forms.

What is the treatment for pink eye in adults?

Antibiotics if bacterial, antihistamines if allergic, and supportive care if viral.

What treatment is used for pink eye?

Antibiotics, antihistamines, artificial tears, and cold compresses, depending on the type.

What is the best over-the-counter treatment for pink eye?

Artificial tears and antihistamine drops for symptom relief.

What antibiotic is used for pink eye?

Erythromycin, polymyxin B/trimethoprim, and ciprofloxacin are commonly prescribed.

Will pink eye go away without treatment?

Often, yes. But treatment helps shorten the duration and prevent complications.