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GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment - 4g

GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment - 4g

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  • ✔️ Treats acute bacterial conjunctivitis in adults and children aged 2+
  • ✔️ Chloramphenicol 1% w/w clears infection within 5 days
  • ✔️ Ointment formulation provides longer eye contact than drops
  • ✔️ Ideal for bedtime use — sustained overnight antibiotic action
  • ✔️ Available without a prescription as a Pharmacy medicine

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What Is GoldenEye Antibiotic Eye Ointment?

 

If your eye is red, sticky, and uncomfortable, bacterial conjunctivitis is one of the most likely culprits. It is a common condition — the NHS estimates it affects millions of people in the UK each year — and it can spread quickly between household members. GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment is an over-the-counter treatment containing chloramphenicol 1% w/w, a well-established antibiotic used to clear bacterial eye infections without the need for a GP appointment. You can browse our full range of eye care products if you are looking for additional support alongside treatment.

Each 4g tube contains enough ointment for a standard 5-day treatment course. The ointment formulation is particularly useful at night, as it stays in contact with the eye surface longer than drops, providing sustained antibiotic action while you sleep. It is available without a prescription for adults and children aged 2 years and over.

 

How Does GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment Work?

 

Chloramphenicol works by targeting bacterial ribosomes — specifically the 50S ribosomal subunit — and blocking the synthesis of proteins that bacteria need to survive and replicate. Without these proteins, the bacteria cannot multiply, and your body's immune system can clear the remaining infection. It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning it acts against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria commonly responsible for conjunctivitis.

  • Binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria
  • Inhibits peptidyl transferase, preventing peptide bond formation
  • Stops bacterial protein synthesis, halting replication
  • Effective against common pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae

 

Who Should Use GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

 

This ointment is intended for people with acute bacterial conjunctivitis — not viral or allergic conjunctivitis, which will not respond to antibiotics. How do you tell the difference? Bacterial conjunctivitis typically causes a yellow or green sticky discharge, crusting around the eyelids (especially in the morning), and redness in one or both eyes. Viral conjunctivitis tends to produce a watery discharge and often follows a cold.

GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment is suitable for:

  • Adults aged 18 and over with confirmed or suspected bacterial conjunctivitis
  • Children aged 2 years and over (under pharmacist supervision)
  • People who prefer an ointment formulation over eye drops
  • Those who want to treat a mild-to-moderate eye infection without visiting a GP

 

How Does GoldenEye Ointment Compare to Chloramphenicol Eye Drops?

 

Feature GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment 4g Chloramphenicol 0.5% Eye Drops
Active ingredient Chloramphenicol 1% w/w Chloramphenicol 0.5% w/v
Formulation Ointment Drops
Best used At night / less frequent dosing During the day
Vision after application Temporary blurring expected Minimal blurring
Contact time on eye Longer — ointment base Shorter — washes away faster

 

How Should You Store GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

 

Store the tube below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate. Once opened, the ointment should be discarded after 4 weeks — even if some product remains — to reduce the risk of contamination and secondary infection. Keep it out of the reach and sight of children at all times.

If you are managing multiple eye care products or looking for related treatments, our creams and ointments collection includes a range of topical treatments for various conditions. Always check the expiry date printed on the tube before use, and never share your ointment with another person, even if they have similar 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.

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

Specifications of GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment 4g

 

What Is GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment and What Is It Used For?

 

GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment 4g is a topical ophthalmic preparation containing chloramphenicol 1% w/w. 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). The NHS advises that bacterial conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye conditions seen in primary care, and chloramphenicol is the recommended first-line antibiotic treatment. This ointment is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription but should be supplied under pharmacist supervision.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

 

Before using this ointment, it is important to check that 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 are under 2 years of age
  • You wear contact lenses (remove lenses before application and do not reinsert until treatment is complete)
  • You have a personal or family history of blood disorders, particularly aplastic anaemia
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — seek medical advice before use
  • Your symptoms have not improved after 5 days of treatment
  • You have eye pain, changes in vision, or sensitivity to light — these may indicate a more serious condition requiring urgent assessment

Known drug interactions with topical chloramphenicol at ophthalmic doses are not considered clinically significant. However, if you are using other eye drops or ointments, allow at least 5 minutes between applications. Always tell your pharmacist about any other medicines you are taking.

  • No significant systemic drug interactions reported at ophthalmic doses
  • Allow 5 minutes between different eye preparations if using more than one
  • Inform your pharmacist if you are using any other prescription eye treatments

 

How Should You Use GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

 

Always use this ointment exactly as directed by your pharmacist or as described in the patient information leaflet. Wash your hands before and after each application.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
  2. Tilt your head back slightly and look upward
  3. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket
  4. Squeeze a small strip of ointment (approximately 1cm) into the pocket — avoid touching the tube tip to your eye or skin
  5. Close your eye gently and blink a few times to distribute the ointment
  6. Wipe away any excess ointment with a clean tissue
  7. Replace the cap on the tube immediately after use
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Acute bacterial conjunctivitis Adults (18+) ~1cm strip per eye 3–4 times daily for 5 days
Acute bacterial conjunctivitis Children (2–17 years) ~1cm strip per eye 3–4 times daily for 5 days (pharmacist supervision)

If you are also using chloramphenicol eye drops during the day, the ointment can be used at bedtime as a complement. If you are exploring other treatments for related conditions, our ear, nose and throat collection includes products for infections affecting nearby areas.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

 

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

Common side effects:

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after application
  • Temporary blurred vision (usually clears within a few minutes)
  • Mild eye irritation or watering

Less common side effects:

  • Localised allergic reaction (redness, swelling, or itching around the eye)
  • Eyelid swelling
  • Hypersensitivity reactions — stop use immediately and seek medical advice

Serious systemic side effects from topical chloramphenicol are extremely rare. There have been very rare reports of aplastic anaemia associated with topical chloramphenicol use, though a causal link has not been definitively established. If you notice unusual bruising, fatigue, or signs of blood disorder, stop use and seek urgent medical attention.

 

How Should You Store GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place — do not refrigerate
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Discard 4 weeks after first opening, even if product remains
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicines to your pharmacy

If you are managing other health conditions alongside an eye infection, you may find our first aid collection useful for general wound and infection care products.

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 GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment online in the UK?

You can buy GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment 4g directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy, for £7.49. No prescription is needed for adults and children aged 2 and over. Simply add it to your basket and a pharmacist will review your order before dispatch to ensure it is suitable for you. You can also browse our full eye care collection for related products.

How does GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment work in the body?

GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment contains chloramphenicol 1% w/w, which works by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria and blocking protein synthesis. Without the ability to produce essential proteins, bacteria cannot replicate or survive. This allows your immune system to clear the infection, typically within 5 days of consistent use.

How do I apply GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment step by step?

Start by washing your hands thoroughly. Tilt your head back, look upward, and gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket. Squeeze approximately 1cm of ointment into the pocket without letting the tube tip touch your eye, then close your eye gently and blink to spread the ointment. Wipe away any excess with a clean tissue and replace the cap immediately.

How often should I use GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment each day?

Apply the ointment to the affected eye or eyes three to four times daily, including at bedtime. Space applications evenly throughout the day where possible. Continue for the full 5-day course even if your symptoms improve before the course is finished, as stopping early can allow the infection to return.

What are the side effects of GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are a brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after application and temporary blurred vision, both of which usually resolve within a few minutes. Avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision clears after each application. If you experience severe eye pain, significant swelling, or worsening redness, stop using the ointment and speak to a pharmacist or GP promptly.

Who is eligible to use GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment?

GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment is suitable for adults aged 18 and over and children aged 2 years and over with acute bacterial conjunctivitis. It is not suitable for children under 2 years, people with a known allergy to chloramphenicol, or those with a personal or family history of aplastic anaemia. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before use.

What happens if I miss a dose of GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment?

If you miss an application, apply the ointment as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case skip the missed application and carry on as normal. Never apply a double dose to compensate for a missed one. Maintaining a regular schedule throughout the 5-day course gives the best chance of clearing the infection fully.

What are the alternatives to GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment for conjunctivitis?

The main over-the-counter alternative is chloramphenicol 0.5% eye drops, which are applied more frequently during the day and cause less temporary blurring than the ointment. Some people use both — drops during the day and ointment at bedtime — for continuous antibiotic coverage. For allergic conjunctivitis, antihistamine eye drops are more appropriate; you can explore related options in our allergy and hay fever collection.

How long does it take for GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment to work?

Most people notice an improvement in symptoms — reduced discharge, less redness, and less crusting — within 48 hours of starting treatment. However, you should complete the full 5-day course regardless of how quickly you feel better. If there is no improvement after 5 days, or if symptoms worsen at any point, seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.

Can I use GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment while wearing contact lenses?

No — you should not wear contact lenses while you have bacterial conjunctivitis or while using this ointment. Remove your lenses before applying the ointment and do not reinsert them until your course of treatment is complete and your symptoms have fully resolved. Wearing lenses during an eye infection can worsen the condition and increase the risk of complications.

Is GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment safe to use during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should seek advice from your GP or pharmacist before using GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment. While systemic absorption from topical ophthalmic chloramphenicol is minimal, it is always best to get professional guidance during pregnancy to ensure the treatment is appropriate for your individual circumstances.

How long can I use GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment for?

The recommended treatment course is 5 days. You should not use the ointment for longer than 5 days without seeking medical advice, as prolonged use of antibiotics can contribute to bacterial resistance and may mask a more serious underlying condition. Once opened, the tube must be discarded after 4 weeks even if product remains.

Can I use GoldenEye antibiotic eye ointment in both eyes if only one is infected?

You should only treat the eye or eyes that are infected, as directed by your pharmacist. Bacterial conjunctivitis can spread from one eye to the other, so if both eyes become affected during your course of treatment, apply the ointment to both. Always use a separate clean tissue for each eye to avoid cross-contamination.

What is the difference between bacterial and viral conjunctivitis?

Bacterial conjunctivitis typically causes a yellow or green sticky discharge, crusting of the eyelids (particularly in the morning), and redness in one or both eyes. Viral conjunctivitis usually produces a watery discharge and often accompanies a cold or upper respiratory infection. Antibiotic ointments like GoldenEye are only effective against bacterial conjunctivitis — viral conjunctivitis generally resolves on its own without antibiotic treatment.

What are the latest clinical findings on chloramphenicol eye ointment for conjunctivitis?

Chloramphenicol remains the recommended first-line topical antibiotic for acute bacterial conjunctivitis in UK clinical guidelines, including those from the NHS and NICE. Research continues to support its efficacy and safety profile for short-term ophthalmic use. The risk of serious systemic side effects such as aplastic anaemia from topical use is considered extremely rare, and the benefit-risk balance for a 5-day course is well established in clinical practice.

How Should You Use GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the ointment. Avoid touching the tip of the tube to your eye, eyelid, or any other surface to prevent contamination.

If you are treating both eyes, use a fresh tissue for each eye to avoid spreading infection from one eye to the other.

What Is the Correct Dose of GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

The dose is the same for adults and children aged 2 and over. Apply a strip of approximately 1cm to the affected eye or eyes at each application. Do not apply more than directed — a small amount is sufficient to coat the eye surface effectively.

When Is the Best Time to Use GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

Space your applications evenly throughout the day — for example, morning, midday, late afternoon, and bedtime if using four times daily. The ointment is particularly well suited to bedtime use because it stays in contact with the eye surface for longer while you sleep, providing sustained antibiotic action overnight. If you are also using chloramphenicol eye drops during the day, reserve the ointment for your final application at night.

Because the ointment can cause temporary blurred vision after application, avoid driving or operating machinery immediately after use until your vision has fully cleared.

How Long Can You Use GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment For?

The recommended treatment course is 5 days. Complete the full course even if your symptoms improve before the 5 days are up — stopping early increases the risk of the infection returning or becoming harder to treat. Do not use the ointment for longer than 5 days without seeking advice from a pharmacist or GP, as prolonged antibiotic use can contribute to bacterial resistance.

Once opened, the tube must be discarded after 4 weeks, regardless of how much product remains. Never share the tube with another person, even if they have similar symptoms.

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 GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

Most people tolerate GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment well. The side effects that do occur are usually mild, localised to the eye, and resolve quickly without any additional treatment.

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after application
  • Temporary blurred vision lasting a few minutes after each application
  • Mild watering of the eye
  • Slight eye irritation

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

Less commonly, some people may experience a localised reaction around the eye. These effects are not typical but are worth being aware of before you start treatment.

  • Redness, itching, or swelling of the eyelid or surrounding skin
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Localised allergic contact reaction
  • Eyelid swelling or puffiness

If you notice any of these less common effects, stop using the ointment and speak to your pharmacist or GP before continuing treatment.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

Serious side effects from topical ophthalmic chloramphenicol are extremely rare. There have been very rare reports of aplastic anaemia — a serious blood disorder — associated with topical chloramphenicol use, although a definitive causal link has not been established. The risk is considered very low for a short 5-day course.

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following during or after treatment:

  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Unexplained fatigue or pallor
  • Frequent infections or signs of a weakened immune system
  • Severe eye pain or sudden changes in vision

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment?

For mild side effects such as temporary stinging or blurred vision, no action is usually needed — these effects resolve on their own within minutes. Avoid rubbing your eye after application, as this can worsen irritation and spread infection. If you experience a more significant reaction such as eyelid swelling, worsening redness, or signs of an allergic response, stop using the ointment immediately and seek advice from a pharmacist or GP.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting side effects helps improve the safety information available for all medicines.

Can GoldenEye Antibiotic Ointment Interact With Other Medicines?

Clinically significant drug interactions with topical chloramphenicol at ophthalmic doses are not well documented and are not considered a major concern for most people. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments at the same time, allow at least 5 minutes between applications to prevent one preparation from diluting or washing out the other. Always inform your pharmacist of any other medicines — including prescription eye treatments — that you are currently using, so they can check for any potential interactions 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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