Chloramphenicol 1% Eye Ointment 4g

What is Chloramphenicol 1% Eye Ointment 4g?

Chloramphenicol 1% Eye Ointment is an antibiotic ointment used to treat acute bacterial conjunctivitis, the red, gritty, sticky eye infection that often glues the eyelids together overnight. A small amount is applied into the space between the lower eyelid and the eye. It is available from the pharmacy without a prescription for adults and children aged 2 and over, once our pharmacist has checked it is suitable for you.

How does it help?

Chloramphenicol stops the bacteria in the eye making the proteins they need to grow and multiply, so the infection is brought under control and your own immune system clears what is left. Because an ointment stays in contact with the eye for longer than drops, it is often used at night, or on its own applied three to four times a day for up to five days. Your vision will blur for a short while after each application, so allow for that before driving or reading.

Key benefits

• Treats the bacterial cause of the infection rather than just soothing the symptoms
• Longer contact time than drops, which makes it useful overnight
• Suitable for adults and children from 2 years
• Available the same day from the pharmacy after a short check

Who should take care?

Always read the patient information leaflet before use. For adults and children aged 2 and over. Do not use for more than 5 days unless a doctor tells you to, and see a doctor if there is no improvement after 2 days or symptoms get worse at any time. Do not use if you or a close family member has had a blood disorder such as aplastic anaemia, or if you have reacted to chloramphenicol before. Not for use in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Do not wear contact lenses during treatment and wait at least 24 hours after finishing before wearing soft lenses again. See a doctor rather than using this ointment if you have severe eye pain, blurred or disturbed vision, sensitivity to light, a cloudy eye, an unusual-looking pupil, or think something may be in the eye. Our pharmacist checks it is right for you before it is dispensed.