Which treatment is typically NOT used for acute bacterial conjunctivitis?

Topical corticosteroids are typically not used for the treatment of acute bacterial conjunctivitis because they can exacerbate the infection rather than help resolve it. Corticosteroids may suppress the local immune response, allowing the bacterial infection to worsen or prolong the symptoms.

In contrast, polymyxin B/trimethoprim, erythromycin, and azithromycin ophthalmic preparations are antibiotic treatments specifically aimed at eradicating the bacteria responsible for conjunctivitis. These medications work by targeting and killing the bacteria or inhibiting their growth, thus alleviating the signs and symptoms associated with the infection. Using antibiotics is essential for managing acute bacterial conjunctivitis, while using steroids is contraindicated in this context due to their potential to complicate the infection.