What it is used for
- Bacterial conjunctivitis ('pink eye' caused by bacteria)
- Bacterial eye infections
- Some bacterial ear infections
- Eye infections after minor injury or foreign body removal
How it works
Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic that stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and multiply. Applied directly to the eye or ear, it tackles the infection where it is, with very little entering the rest of the body.
How it is taken
Comes as eye drops and an eye ointment, and sometimes as ear drops. Drops are placed into the affected eye or ear and ointment is applied along the inside of the lower eyelid. Wash your hands first, avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye, skin or any surface, and complete the full course even if symptoms improve. Use it exactly as your doctor, pharmacist or the package label directs, and do not share the bottle with anyone else.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Brief stinging, burning or itching when applied
- Temporary blurred vision (with ointment)
- Watery eyes
- Mild eye irritation or redness
Serious effects — get help
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling, a widespread rash, or difficulty breathing
- Worsening eye pain, swelling or vision changes despite treatment
- Very rarely, serious blood disorders linked to chloramphenicol (seek urgent care for unexplained bruising, bleeding, sore throat or fever)
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other eye drops or ointments (space applications apart and ask a pharmacist)
- Contact lenses (generally avoid wearing while treating an eye infection)
- Tell your clinician about all medicines if chloramphenicol is ever used in any non-topical form
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Mention any history of blood disorders or bone marrow problems
- Not suitable if you are allergic to chloramphenicol
- Use with caution in very young infants only under medical advice
- Discard the bottle after the period your pharmacist or label specifies once opened