Chloramphenicol eye drops: how to take it safely
Chloramphenicol 0.5% eye drops, Chloromycetin
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats bacterial eye infections such as red, sticky, watery eyes (conjunctivitis).
How to take it
- Wash your hands. Tilt your head back, pull down the lower lid and put one drop in the eye.
- Close the eye for a minute and avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye.
When to take it
Use it every 2 to 4 hours at first, then less often as it improves, for 5 days.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Wearing contact lenses during treatment.
- Sharing towels, pillows or the bottle.
- Using it for longer than 5 days without advice.
- Tell your doctor if you have had blood problems.
Possible side effects
Mild stinging or burning when put in.
Get help if
Eye pain, loss of vision, light hurting the eyes, swelling of the eyelids, or no better in 2 days: see a doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.