Summarize:

If your doctor determines that your pink eye is due to a viral infection, then he will most likely tell you simply to be patient. Your immune system will fight off the virus, and your symptoms will clear up on their own. This form of pink eye usually occurs in association with other cold or flu symptoms. In select cases (if your physician diagnoses the herpes virus as the source of your viral conjunctivitis, for instance), your doctor may prescribe an antiviral ointment or eyedrops such as acyclovir ointment or ganciclovir gel. These prescriptions will stop the virus from multiplying and potentially causing further damage to your eye(s). Many minor cases of bacterial pink eye can clear on their own within a week or two. However, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to help clear the infection sooner and reduce the amount of time that you’re contagious. A wide assortment of antibiotic eyedrops are available for prescription, and your doctor will determine the best option based on several guidelines, including:  Allergies you have to any medications. Your case history (whether or not pink eye infection has been chronic). The exact bacteria responsible for the infection. If your doctor prescribes either antiviral or antibiotic eyedrops, then ensure you take the entire course of the prescription. Your symptoms may subside after only several days, but you should still take the medication exactly as directed. If you stop early, you’re more likely to experience a recurrence in the infection, and you can also help breed resistant strains of the infection. Contact your doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction to your prescription, such as a rash, hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling of your face, throat, eyes, or tongue.
Allow viral conjunctivitis to run its course. Take antibiotics for bacterial conjunctivitis. Take the full course of medication.