Generic name: chloramphenicol ophthalmic [ klor-am-FEN-i-kole ]
Brand names: Chloroptic, Chloroptic S.O.P., AK-Chlor, Chloromycetin Ophthalmic, Ocu-Chlor
Drug class: Ophthalmic anti-infectives

What is chloramphenicol ophthalmic?

Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic.

The ophthalmic form of chloramphenicol is used to treat bacterial infections of the eyes.

Chloramphenicol ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about chloramphenicol ophthalmic?

Contact your doctor if your symptoms begin to get worse or if you do not see any improvement in your condition after a few days.

Do not touch the dropper or tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper or tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Apply light pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) after each drop to prevent the fluid from draining down your tear ducts.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using chloramphenicol ophthalmic?

Do not use chloramphenicol ophthalmic if you have a viral or fungal infection in your eye. It is used only to treat infections caused by bacteria.

It is not known whether chloramphenicol ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Do not use chloramphenicol ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is also not known whether chloramphenicol ophthalmic passes into breast milk. Do not use chloramphenicol ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use chloramphenicol ophthalmic?

Use chloramphenicol ophthalmic eyedrops or ointment exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before using your eyedrops or ointment.

To apply the eyedrops:

• Shake the drops gently to be sure the medicine is well mixed. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid. Position the dropper above your eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close your eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down your tear duct. If you are using more than one drop in the same eye or drops in both eyes, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops.

To apply the ointment:

• Hold the tube in your hand for a few minutes to warm it up so that the ointment comes out easily. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down gently on your lower eyelid. Apply a thin film of the ointment into your lower eyelid. Close your eye and roll your eyeball around in all directions for 1 to 2 minutes. If you are applying another eye medication, allow at least 10 minutes before your next application.

Do not touch the dropper or tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper or tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Do not use any eyedrop that is discolored or has particles in it.

Store chloramphenicol ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle or tube properly capped.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect an overdose, wash the eye with water and call an emergency room or poison control center near you. If the drops or ointment have been ingested, drink plenty of fluid and call an emergency center for advice.

Related/similar drugs

ciprofloxacin ophthalmic, azithromycin ophthalmic, levofloxacin ophthalmic, erythromycin ophthalmic, gentamicin ophthalmic

What should I avoid while using chloramphenicol ophthalmic?

Do not touch the dropper or tube opening to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper or tube opening is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Chloramphenicol ophthalmic may cause blurred vision. If you experience blurred vision, avoid these activities.

Use caution with contact lenses. Wear them only if your doctor approves. After applying this medication, wait at least 15 minutes before inserting contact lenses.

Avoid other eye medications unless your doctor approves.

Chloramphenicol ophthalmic side effects

Serious side effects are not expected with this medication. Rarely, prolonged use of this medication has damaged bone marrow. Call your doctor if you experience extreme fatigue or unusual bleeding or bruising.

More commonly, some burning, stinging, irritation, itching, redness, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light may occur. Continue to use chloramphenicol ophthalmic and talk to your doctor about any side effects that you experience.

What other drugs will affect chloramphenicol ophthalmic?

Avoid using other eyedrops or eye medications unless they are approved by your doctor.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with chloramphenicol ophthalmic. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Further information

• Your pharmacist has additional information about chloramphenicol ophthalmic written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Chloramphenicol ophthalmic is available with a prescription under several brand and generic names as a solution and as an ointment. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• AK-Chlor 5 mg per mL solution

• AK-Chlor 10 mg per gram ointment

• Chloroptic 5 mg per mL solution

• Chloroptic S.O.P. 10 mg per gram ointment

• Chloromycetin 10 mg per gram ointment

• Chloromycetin 25 mg per vial, powder for solution

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.08. Revision Date: 6/30/04 4:37:27 PM.