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Golden Eye Antibiotic 1% w/w Chloramphenicol Eye Ointment 4g

Golden Eye Antibiotic 1% w/w Chloramphenicol Eye Ointment 4g

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  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Treats bacterial conjunctivitis in adults and children aged 2+
  • ✔️ Chloramphenicol 1% w/w kills a broad range of eye bacteria
  • ✔️ Ointment formulation provides prolonged contact with the eye
  • ✔️ Symptoms typically improve within 48 hours of starting treatment
  • ✔️ Convenient 5-day treatment course in a 4g tube

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What Is Golden Eye Chloramphenicol Eye Ointment?

 

If your eye has turned red, sticky, and uncomfortable, there is a good chance you are dealing with bacterial conjunctivitis — one of the most common eye infections in the UK. Chloramphenicol eye ointment is a clinically proven, over-the-counter antibiotic treatment that targets the bacteria responsible for this kind of infection. Golden Eye Antibiotic 1% w/w Eye Ointment contains chloramphenicol as its active ingredient and is available to buy without a prescription for adults and children aged 2 years and over. You can browse our full range of treatments in our eye care collection.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is characterised by redness, a gritty or burning sensation, and a yellow or green discharge that can cause the eyelids to stick together, particularly in the morning. It is highly contagious, so prompt treatment matters — both for your own comfort and to prevent spreading the infection to others.

 

How Does Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment Work?

 

Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that works by interfering with bacterial protein synthesis. In simple terms, it stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to survive and multiply. Without those proteins, the bacteria cannot reproduce, and your immune system can clear the remaining infection more easily.

  • Chloramphenicol binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria
  • This blocks the enzyme peptidyl transferase, preventing peptide bond formation
  • Bacterial protein production halts, stopping replication
  • The ointment formulation provides prolonged contact time with the ocular surface compared to drops

Because it is applied directly to the eye, systemic absorption is minimal at the doses used in this ointment. This makes it a well-tolerated option for most people when used as directed.

 

Who Is Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment Suitable For?

 

This ointment is intended for people with confirmed or suspected bacterial conjunctivitis. It is not appropriate for viral or allergic eye conditions, which require different treatments entirely. So how do you know if your conjunctivitis is bacterial? Bacterial infections typically produce a thick, coloured discharge, whereas viral conjunctivitis tends to cause watery eyes alongside cold-like symptoms.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with bacterial conjunctivitis
  • Children aged 2 years and over (under medical supervision where possible)
  • People who have previously used chloramphenicol eye preparations without adverse effects
  • Those who prefer an ointment formulation, particularly for overnight use

It is not suitable for people with a personal or family history of blood disorders, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding without medical advice, or anyone who has had a previous allergic reaction to chloramphenicol.

 

How Does Golden Eye Ointment Compare to Chloramphenicol Eye Drops?

 

Feature Golden Eye Ointment (1% w/w) Chloramphenicol Eye Drops (0.5%)
Formulation Ointment Drops
Application frequency 3–4 times daily (or at night) Every 2 hours initially, reducing to 4 times daily
Vision after application Temporary blurring likely Minimal blurring
Contact time with eye Longer — ointment stays in place Shorter — drops drain quickly
Best suited for Overnight use or when drops are impractical Daytime use

 

How Should You Store Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

 

Proper storage keeps the ointment safe and effective throughout your course of treatment. Store the tube below 25°C and keep it away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Once opened, the tube should be discarded after four weeks — even if ointment remains — to reduce the risk of contamination and secondary infection. If you are looking for other topical treatments, our creams and ointments collection has a wide range of options.

Always keep the cap tightly closed when not in use and store the tube out of reach of children. Never share your eye ointment with another person, even if they appear to have the same symptoms.

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.

Golden Eye Antibiotic 1% w/w Chloramphenicol Eye Ointment 4g specifications
Treatment category Bacterial conjunctivitis / Eye infections
Active ingredient Chloramphenicol 1% w/w
Mechanism of action Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit
Effective against Broad-spectrum gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
Suitable for Adults and children aged 2 years and over
Pack size 4g tube
Strength 1% w/w
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Broad-spectrum antibiotic
Preparation Eye ointment
Route of administration Ophthalmic (topical to the eye)

Specifications of Golden Eye Antibiotic 1% w/w Chloramphenicol Eye Ointment 4g

 

What Is Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment and What Is It Used For?

 

Golden Eye Antibiotic 1% w/w Chloramphenicol Eye Ointment is a topical antibiotic medicine used to treat acute bacterial conjunctivitis — commonly known as "pink eye" or "sticky eye." It contains chloramphenicol, a broad-spectrum antibiotic that has been used in ophthalmology for decades. The ointment is applied directly into the eye and works locally to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription but should be supplied under the supervision of a pharmacist.

Bacterial conjunctivitis causes redness, irritation, and a sticky discharge from one or both eyes. The NHS advises that most cases clear up on their own within one to two weeks, but antibiotic treatment can speed up recovery and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

 

Before using this ointment, it is important to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not use it if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to chloramphenicol or any other ingredient in the ointment
  • You or a close family member have a history of blood disorders, including aplastic anaemia
  • The person being treated is under 2 years of age
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — seek medical advice first
  • You have a viral or fungal eye infection (this ointment only treats bacterial infections)
  • You wear soft contact lenses (remove lenses before use and do not reinsert until the infection has cleared)

Known drug interactions with topical chloramphenicol at ophthalmic doses are limited. However, you should be aware of the following:

  • Avoid using other eye drops or ointments at the same time unless directed by a healthcare professional
  • If you need to use more than one eye preparation, allow at least 5 minutes between applications
  • Inform your pharmacist or GP of all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies

 

How Should You Use Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

 

Always use this ointment exactly as directed by your pharmacist or as described in the patient information leaflet. Do not use more than recommended or for longer than advised.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the tube or your eyes
  2. Tilt your head back slightly and gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket
  3. Squeeze a small strip of ointment (approximately 1 cm) into the pocket between the eyelid and the eye — avoid touching the eye or eyelid with the tube tip
  4. Close your eye gently and blink a few times to spread the ointment evenly across the surface
  5. Wipe away any excess ointment from around the eye with a clean tissue
  6. Replace the cap immediately after use
  7. Wash your hands again after application
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Bacterial conjunctivitis Adults and children aged 2+ Approximately 1 cm strip of ointment 3–4 times daily for 5 days
Bacterial conjunctivitis (night-time use alongside drops) Adults and children aged 2+ Approximately 1 cm strip of ointment Once at night

If symptoms have not improved after 5 days of treatment, stop using the ointment and consult your GP. You can also find additional eye care products in our eye care collection if you need further support.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

 

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

Common side effects:

  • Temporary stinging or burning sensation immediately after application
  • Blurred vision for a short period after applying the ointment
  • Mild eye irritation or watering

Less common side effects:

  • Allergic reaction — redness, swelling, or itching that worsens rather than improves
  • Hypersensitivity reactions including contact dermatitis around the eye
  • In very rare cases, systemic absorption has been associated with blood disorders (aplastic anaemia) — this is extremely rare with topical use but is the reason this medicine is not recommended for those with a personal or family history of blood disorders

Stop using the ointment and seek medical advice immediately if you develop signs of an allergic reaction, your symptoms worsen, or you notice any unusual bruising or bleeding elsewhere on your body.

 

How Should You Store Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Discard the tube 4 weeks after first opening, even if ointment remains
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton
  • Do not share the tube with anyone else

If you are managing multiple health conditions and need a range of treatments, our first aid collection includes a variety of products to help you stay prepared at home.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Golden Eye chloramphenicol eye ointment online in the UK?

You can buy Golden Eye Antibiotic 1% w/w Chloramphenicol Eye Ointment directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy, for £7.79. It is available as a Pharmacy (P) medicine, so a short suitability check is required before purchase. Browse our full eye care collection for related products.

How does chloramphenicol eye ointment treat bacterial conjunctivitis?

Chloramphenicol works by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, blocking protein synthesis and preventing the bacteria from reproducing. This allows your immune system to clear the infection more effectively. The ointment formulation provides prolonged contact with the eye surface, which can enhance its antibacterial effect compared to drops used alone.

How do I apply Golden Eye antibiotic eye ointment correctly?

Wash your hands before use, then gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Squeeze approximately 1 cm of ointment into the pocket without touching the tube tip to your eye, then blink gently to spread it. Wipe away any excess with a clean tissue and replace the cap immediately.

How many times a day should I use Golden Eye eye ointment?

The standard dosage is to apply the ointment 3 to 4 times daily for 5 days. If you are using it alongside chloramphenicol eye drops during the day, the ointment is typically applied once at night to maintain antibiotic coverage while you sleep. Always follow the instructions provided by your pharmacist.

How long does it take for Golden Eye ointment to clear up conjunctivitis?

Most people notice a clear improvement in symptoms within 48 hours of starting treatment. You should complete the full 5-day course even if your eyes feel better sooner, as stopping early can allow the infection to return. If there is no improvement after 5 days, consult your GP.

What are the side effects of Golden Eye chloramphenicol eye ointment?

The most common side effects are temporary stinging, burning, or blurred vision immediately after applying the ointment — these usually pass within a few minutes. Less commonly, some people experience mild allergic reactions such as increased redness or itching around the eye. In very rare cases, systemic blood disorders have been reported with chloramphenicol, though this risk is extremely low with topical ophthalmic use.

Can I use Golden Eye eye ointment if I wear contact lenses?

No — you should not wear contact lenses while you have a bacterial eye infection, and you must remove lenses before applying the ointment. Do not reinsert your contact lenses until the infection has fully resolved and you have completed the full course of treatment. Wearing lenses during an active infection can worsen symptoms and delay recovery.

Is Golden Eye antibiotic ointment safe to use during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should seek advice from your GP or pharmacist before using chloramphenicol eye ointment. Systemic absorption from topical ophthalmic use is very low, but as a precaution, medical guidance is recommended before use during pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding.

Can children use Golden Eye chloramphenicol eye ointment?

Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment is suitable for children aged 2 years and over. It must not be used in children under 2 years of age. For young children, it is always advisable to consult a GP or pharmacist before starting any antibiotic eye treatment to confirm the diagnosis and appropriate course of action.

What is the difference between Golden Eye ointment and Golden Eye drops?

Golden Eye ointment contains chloramphenicol at 1% w/w and is thicker in consistency, providing longer contact time with the eye — making it particularly useful at night. Chloramphenicol eye drops (0.5%) are thinner, cause less blurring, and are typically used during the day. Some treatment regimens combine both: drops during the day and ointment at night.

What happens if I miss a dose of Golden Eye eye ointment?

If you forget to apply a dose, apply it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled application, in which case skip the missed dose and continue as normal. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining a regular schedule helps ensure the antibiotic remains effective throughout your course.

How long can I keep Golden Eye eye ointment once opened?

Once opened, the tube should be discarded after 4 weeks, even if ointment remains inside. Using the ointment beyond this point increases the risk of contamination and secondary infection. Always check the expiry date on the tube before use and never use a tube that has passed its expiry date.

Are there alternatives to chloramphenicol eye ointment for bacterial conjunctivitis?

Yes — other antibiotic eye preparations such as fusidic acid eye drops (e.g. Fucithalmic) are sometimes used as an alternative, particularly in patients where chloramphenicol is not suitable. Your GP may also prescribe other antibiotics depending on the bacteria involved. For a broader range of eye care options, visit our eye care collection.

Who should not use Golden Eye antibiotic eye ointment?

This ointment is not suitable for children under 2 years of age, people with a personal or family history of blood disorders (including aplastic anaemia), or anyone with a known allergy to chloramphenicol. It should also be avoided in viral or fungal eye infections, as it will not be effective and may delay appropriate treatment.

What does the latest evidence say about chloramphenicol for conjunctivitis?

Chloramphenicol remains one of the most widely recommended first-line topical antibiotics for bacterial conjunctivitis in the UK, as supported by NHS guidance and the British National Formulary. Research consistently shows it is effective against the most common causative organisms, including Staphylococcus aureus and Haemophilus influenzae. The NHS notes that while many cases of conjunctivitis resolve without treatment, antibiotic therapy can shorten the duration of symptoms.

How Should You Use Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

Using this ointment correctly is important both for your safety and to make sure the treatment works as effectively as possible. Always wash your hands before and after application, and never allow the tube tip to touch your eye, eyelid, or any other surface, as this can introduce bacteria and contaminate the remaining ointment.

What Is the Correct Dose of Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

The dose is the same for adults and children aged 2 years and over. Do not apply more ointment than recommended — a strip of approximately 1 cm is sufficient for each application. Using more will not speed up recovery and may increase the likelihood of temporary blurred vision.

When Is the Best Time to Use Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

Because the ointment can cause temporary blurring of vision, many people find it most convenient to apply it at night before bed. This way, the blurring does not interfere with daily activities such as driving or reading. If you are using it 3 to 4 times daily, try to space applications evenly throughout the day — for example, morning, midday, late afternoon, and bedtime. Avoid applying the ointment immediately before driving or operating machinery.

If you are also using chloramphenicol eye drops during the day, apply the drops first and wait at least 5 minutes before applying the ointment at night.

How Long Can You Use Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment For?

The recommended course of treatment is 5 days. Do not use the ointment for longer than this without medical advice, as prolonged use of antibiotics can contribute to bacterial resistance. If your symptoms have not improved after 5 days, or if they worsen at any point during treatment, stop using the ointment and consult your GP. Once opened, the tube must be discarded after 4 weeks regardless of how much ointment remains.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

Most people who use Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment tolerate it well. The side effects that do occur are usually mild, temporary, and limited to the eye itself. They tend to happen immediately after application and resolve within a few minutes.

  • Temporary stinging or burning sensation in the eye after application
  • Blurred vision for a short period following use
  • Mild watering or increased tear production
  • Slight eye irritation or a gritty feeling

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

Less commonly, some people may experience reactions that go beyond mild local irritation. These are not typical but are worth being aware of before you start treatment.

  • Allergic conjunctivitis — worsening redness, itching, or swelling of the eye or eyelid
  • Contact dermatitis — a skin reaction around the eye, including redness, scaling, or a rash on the eyelid
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Eyelid swelling not related to the original infection

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

Serious side effects from topical chloramphenicol eye ointment are very rare. However, there have been isolated reports of aplastic anaemia — a serious blood disorder — associated with chloramphenicol use, including topical preparations. The risk is considered extremely low with ophthalmic use, but it is the reason this product is not recommended for people with a personal or family history of blood disorders. If you notice any unusual bruising, bleeding, persistent fatigue, or pallor during or after treatment, seek urgent medical attention.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you experience mild stinging or temporary blurring after application, this is expected and should pass quickly. However, if your symptoms worsen rather than improve after 48 hours of treatment, or if you develop signs of an allergic reaction — such as significant swelling, severe itching, or difficulty breathing — stop using the ointment immediately and seek medical advice. You can report suspected side effects to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Golden Eye Antibiotic Eye Ointment Interact With Other Medicines?

Clinically significant drug interactions with topical chloramphenicol at ophthalmic doses are uncommon. That said, you should avoid using other eye drops or ointments at the same time unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional. If you need to use more than one eye preparation, allow at least 5 minutes between applications and apply ointments last. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking, including over-the-counter products and herbal remedies, to ensure there are no concerns specific to your situation.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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