Who can use chloramphenicol
Most adults and children aged 2 years or over can use chloramphenicol.
Children under 2 years can sometimes use it, but only if it’s prescribed for them.
Who may not be able to use chloramphenicol
Chloramphenicol is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if:
- you have ever had an allergic reaction to chloramphenicol or any other medicine
- you or anyone in your family has ever had any problems with their blood, such as aplastic anaemia – this is a rare condition when your bone marrow does not produce blood cells
Who may not be able to use eye drops or ointment
Before using chloramphenicol for eye infections, tell you pharmacist or doctor if you're using any other eye drops or ointment, or if you normally wear contact lenses.
It's also important to speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you have:
- any problems with your eyesight, or severe eye pain
- swollen eyes, and a rash on your face or head
- a cloudy eye
- unusual looking pupils – irregular size, bigger than normal (dilated), or not reacting to light
- had a recent eye injury, or something in your eye
- recently had conjunctivitis
- dry eyes – when your eyes do not produce enough tears
- glaucoma
- eyes that are sensitive to light
- recurring eye infections
- had eye surgery or laser treatment in the last 6 months
Who may not be able to use ear drops
Before using chloramphenicol ear drops, tell your doctor if you:
- currently have a perforated (burst) eardrum
- are allergic to polyethylene glycol – an ingredient used in some medicines and cosmetics, and found in some foods