Chloramphenicol eye ointment: how to take it safely
Chloromycetin eye ointment
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Treats bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis and styes. It is often used at night with drops.
How to take it
- Wash your hands. Pull down the lower eyelid and put a thin line of ointment, about 1 cm, inside it.
- Close the eye and blink gently to spread it.
- Do not let the tube tip touch your eye.
When to take it
Apply 3 times a day, or at night with daytime drops, for 5 days.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Wearing contact lenses during treatment.
- Driving until your vision clears after using it.
- Using it for longer than 5 days without advice.
- Sharing the tube, towels or pillows.
- Tell your doctor if you have had blood problems.
Possible side effects
Blurred vision for a few minutes, mild stinging.
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.