A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology revealed that more than two-thirds of children and teens in the U.S. who were treated for pink eye received prescriptions for antibiotic eye drops, despite guidelines discouraging the use of antibiotics for this condition. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends against routinely giving out antibiotics for pink eye, as it is often caused by viruses or mild bacterial infections that resolve on their own.
The study, which analyzed insurance claims from 2021, found that 69% of children with pink eye were prescribed antibiotics, with doctor’s offices being the most frequent prescribers. However, return visits to the doctor for pink eye were rare, indicating that patients may not be at higher risk of complications if they do not receive antibiotic treatment.
Dr. Rupa Wong, a pediatric eye doctor, suggested that eye clinics may be better equipped to accurately diagnose the cause of pink eye and provide appropriate treatment. Dr. Daniel Shapiro, a pediatric emergency doctor and co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use, especially when they may not be effective in treating the condition.
The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to follow evidence-based guidelines and consider alternative supportive measures, such as chilled, wet towels and artificial tears, to help ease symptoms of pink eye without relying on antibiotics. Parents are advised to consult with their child’s healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for pink eye.
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