How does chloramphenicol work?
Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic. It kills the bacteria causing the infection, by stopping it from growing and spreading.
When will I feel better?
For most eye infections, you should notice an improvement within 2 days. For ear infections, you'll notice an improvement within a few days.
Tell your pharmacist or doctor if your symptoms do not start to improve after using chloramphenicol for 2 days. Also tell them if, at any time, your symptoms get worse.
Can I use chloramphenicol if I wear contact lenses?
If you usually wear contact lenses, do not wear them while you're using chloramphenicol eye drops or ointment.
If you use soft contact lenses, wait for 24 hours after your last dose of eye drops or ointment before using your contact lenses again.
What's the difference between using chloramphenicol eye drops and ointment?
An ointment is slightly thicker than a cream, so it stays on the eye for longer than eye drops. This means you only need to use it a few times a day.
Sometimes, it may be hard to see properly after using eye ointment, which can affect your driving, or your ability to carry out your work and other common tasks. It's easier to see after using the eye drops.
Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you whether the eye drops or ointment are best for you.
Are prescription chloramphenicol eye drops different to the ones you can buy?
The chloramphenicol eye drops and eye ointment on sale in pharmacies are exactly the same strength as the ones on prescription. The only difference is in the name and the packaging.
Will it give me thrush?
Chloramphenicol is unlikely to cause thrush.
Some people get thrush after taking a course of antibiotic tablets. It happens because antibiotics kill the normal harmless bacteria that help to protect you against thrush.
But chloramphenicol ointments and drops only work on the area where you're using them, in your eyes or ears. Only a tiny amount gets into the rest of your body.
Will it affect my contraception?
Chloramphenicol does not affect any type of contraceptive, including the combined pill and emergency contraception.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Chloramphenicol should not affect your driving or cycling.
However, if you get stinging or burning, or blurred vision, after applying the eye drops or ointment, do not drive, cycle or use machinery or tools straight away. Wait until your eyes feel OK again and your vision is clear.
Can I drink alcohol while using chloramphenicol?
It's OK to drink alcohol while you're using chloramphenicol.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while using chloramphenicol drops or ointment.