How does chloramphenicol work?
Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic medicine. It works against many different types of bacteria by stopping them from growing and multiplying.
When will I feel better?
For most eye infections, you should notice an improvement within 2 days. For ear infections, you'll notice improvement within a few days.
What if I do not get better?
Tell your pharmacist or doctor if you do not start feeling better after using chloramphenicol for a few days. Also tell them if, at any time, you start to feel 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 eyedrops or ointment.
If you use soft contact lenses, do not wear them for 24 hours after finishing your course of eyedrops or ointment.
What's the difference between using chloramphenicol eyedrops and ointment?
An ointment is slightly thicker than a cream, so it stays on the eye for longer than eyedrops. This means you only need to use it a few times a day. You need to use the eyedrops every 2 hours for the first 2 days.
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 everyday tasks. It's easier to see after using the eyedrops.
Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you whether the eyedrops or ointment are best for you.
Are prescription chloramphenicol eyedrops different to the ones you can buy?
The chloramphenicol eyedrops 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 where you put 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 stop contraceptive pills from working, including the combined pill or emergency contraception.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Chloramphenicol should not affect your driving or cycling.
However, if you get stinging or burning after applying the eyedrops, do not drive, cycle or operate machinery straight away. Wait until your eyes feel OK again and your vision is clear.
Can I drink alcohol with it?
It is OK to drink alcohol with chloramphenicol.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while using chloramphenicol drops or ointment.