Chloramphenicol Eye Drops 0.5% (10 Ml) NOT FOR PET USE

What Are Chloramphenicol Eye Drops Used For?

If your eyes are red, sticky, and uncomfortable, bacterial conjunctivitis is one of the most likely culprits. Chloramphenicol eye drops 0.5% are a clinically established antibiotic treatment used to clear bacterial eye infections quickly and safely. Available over the counter in the UK for adults and children aged 2 years and over, this 10ml bottle provides a full treatment course without the need for a GP appointment. You can browse our full range of eye care products if you need additional support for your eye health.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is extremely common. It causes redness, a gritty feeling, and a yellow or green discharge that can cause the eyelids to stick together, particularly in the morning. The NHS confirms that conjunctivitis often clears on its own, but antibiotic drops can speed up recovery and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others. This product is for human use only — it is not intended for animals.

How Do Chloramphenicol Eye Drops Work Against Infection?

Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that targets a wide range of bacteria responsible for eye infections. It works at the cellular level to stop bacteria from multiplying, giving your body the chance to clear the infection naturally.

• Chloramphenicol binds to the 50S subunit of bacterial ribosomes.
• This blocks the enzyme peptidyl transferase, preventing the formation of new proteins.
• Without the ability to synthesise proteins, bacteria cannot reproduce or survive.
• The drug is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms commonly found in bacterial conjunctivitis.

Because it acts directly on the bacteria rather than simply masking symptoms, the infection is treated at its source. Most people notice a significant improvement within 48 hours of starting treatment.

Who Is Suitable for Chloramphenicol Eye Drops?

These drops are suitable for a broad range of patients, but there are some important eligibility criteria to be aware of before purchasing. They are designed for short-term use in otherwise healthy individuals presenting with signs of bacterial conjunctivitis.

• Adults aged 18 and over with bacterial conjunctivitis symptoms.
• Children aged 2 years and over (under medical supervision where possible).
• People who have not had conjunctivitis more than twice in the past six months.
• Those who wear glasses rather than contact lenses during the treatment period.

They are not suitable for neonates, children under 2, or anyone with a known allergy to chloramphenicol. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or GP before using this product.

How Do Chloramphenicol Eye Drops Compare to Alternatives?

How Should You Store Chloramphenicol Eye Drops?

Proper storage is essential to maintain the effectiveness of this medicine. Before opening, store the bottle below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, keep the bottle in the refrigerator and use it within 28 days — any drops remaining after this point should be discarded safely.

Never share your drops with another person, even if they have similar symptoms. Cross-contamination can spread infection further. If you are managing other health concerns alongside an eye infection, our first aid range includes additional products that may help. Always keep medicines out of the reach of children.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is Chloramphenicol 0.5% Eye Solution and What Is It Used For?

Chloramphenicol Eye Drops 0.5% is a sterile antibiotic solution applied directly to the eye. It is used to treat acute bacterial conjunctivitis — an infection of the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids). Symptoms typically include redness, a sticky or crusty discharge, and a gritty or burning sensation. The NHS advises that bacterial conjunctivitis is highly contagious and can affect one or both eyes. This product is for human use only and must not be used on animals.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using These Eye Drops?

Before using chloramphenicol eye drops, it is important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not use this product if any of the following apply:

• You are allergic to chloramphenicol or any other ingredient in the formulation.
• You or a close family member have a history of blood disorders, particularly aplastic anaemia.
• The patient is a child under 2 years of age.
• You are wearing contact lenses (remove lenses before instilling drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting).
• You have had conjunctivitis more than twice in the past six months — seek GP advice instead.
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding — consult your pharmacist or GP before use.

Known drug interactions with topical chloramphenicol are limited due to minimal systemic absorption. However, be aware of the following:

• Concurrent use with other eye drops: leave at least 5 minutes between different eye preparations.
• Systemic anticoagulants such as warfarin: although topical absorption is very low, inform your GP if you are on anticoagulant therapy.

How Should You Apply Chloramphenicol Eye Drops Correctly?

Correct technique matters. Applying the drops properly ensures the medicine reaches the infected area and reduces the risk of contaminating the bottle. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle.
2. Tilt your head back slightly and look up towards the ceiling.
3. Gently pull down your lower eyelid with a clean finger to create a small pocket.
4. Hold the bottle above the eye and squeeze one to two drops into the pocket — do not let the tip touch your eye or eyelid.
5. Close your eye gently for one to two minutes. You can press lightly on the inner corner of your eye to reduce drainage.
6. Wipe away any excess liquid with a clean tissue.
7. Repeat in the other eye if both are affected.
8. Replace the cap immediately after use.

The usual treatment course is five days. Continue using the drops for the full course even if symptoms improve earlier, to prevent the infection from returning. If you are also managing other conditions, you may find our allergy and hay fever range helpful, as allergic conjunctivitis can sometimes be confused with bacterial infection.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Chloramphenicol Eye Drops?

Like all medicines, chloramphenicol eye drops can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the eye.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

• Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation.
• Temporary blurred vision lasting a few minutes after application.
• Mild eye irritation or discomfort.

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Localised allergic reaction — increased redness, swelling, or itching of the eye or eyelid.
• Superficial punctate keratitis (minor damage to the corneal surface) — rare with short-term use.

A very rare but serious risk associated with systemic chloramphenicol is aplastic anaemia (a severe blood disorder). The NHS and MHRA note that this risk is extremely low with topical ophthalmic use due to minimal systemic absorption, but it is why this medicine should not be used long-term or in those with a personal or family history of blood disorders. Stop using the drops and seek immediate medical attention if you notice unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection unrelated to your eye.

How Should You Store Chloramphenicol Eye Drops Safely?

• Store below 25°C before opening.
• Once opened, store in the refrigerator (2°C–8°C).
• Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if liquid remains.
• Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label.
• Do not freeze.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

If you need to dispose of unused medicine, take it to your local pharmacy — do not pour it down the sink or throw it in household waste. For other eye health products and related treatments, explore our ear, nose and throat range for additional support with related conditions.