• Images are for illustration purposes only

Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5%

Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5%

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Treats bacterial conjunctivitis with chloramphenicol 0.5%
  • ✔️ Clears sticky, red, infected eyes within five days
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged two and over
  • ✔️ Available OTC — no prescription required
  • ✔️ Sterile formulation for safe, direct eye application

Price Checker

Regular price £17.10
Sale price £17.10 £19.10
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Are Chloramphenicol Eye Drops Used For?

 

If your eye is red, sticky, and producing a yellow or green discharge, bacterial conjunctivitis is likely the cause. Chloramphenicol eye drops are the first-line OTC antibiotic treatment recommended for this condition in the UK, and Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5% deliver exactly that. Each millilitre contains 5 mg of chloramphenicol, a broad-spectrum antibiotic with a well-established track record in treating bacterial eye infections. You can browse our full range of eye care products if you need additional support alongside treatment.

Bacterial conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye conditions seen in UK pharmacies. It can affect one or both eyes, and it spreads easily — particularly in households with young children or in workplaces. The good news is that with the right treatment, most cases clear up within five to seven days.

 

How Do Optrex Infected Eye Drops Work?

 

Chloramphenicol is a bacteriostatic antibiotic, meaning it stops bacteria from reproducing rather than killing them outright. This gives your immune system the opportunity to clear the remaining bacteria naturally. Here is how the mechanism works in practice:

  • Chloramphenicol penetrates the bacterial cell and binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit.
  • This binding blocks the enzyme peptidyl transferase, preventing the bacteria from building new proteins.
  • Without protein synthesis, bacteria cannot replicate or sustain themselves.
  • The infection gradually resolves as the bacterial load decreases and your immune response takes over.

Because chloramphenicol has a broad spectrum of activity, it is effective against many of the bacteria most commonly responsible for conjunctivitis, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae.

 

Who Should Use Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

 

These drops are suitable for adults and children aged 2 years and over who have signs of bacterial conjunctivitis. They are available without a prescription, but it is worth confirming with your pharmacist that bacterial conjunctivitis — rather than viral or allergic conjunctivitis — is the likely cause before starting treatment. Allergic conjunctivitis, for instance, will not respond to antibiotics at all.

Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5% are particularly well suited for:

  • Adults with a red, sticky eye producing purulent (pus-like) discharge.
  • Children aged 2 and over with confirmed or suspected bacterial conjunctivitis.
  • People who need a convenient OTC option without a GP appointment.
  • Those who have previously been diagnosed with bacterial conjunctivitis and recognise the symptoms.

 

How Do Optrex Infected Eye Drops Compare to Chloramphenicol Eye Ointment?

 

Feature Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5% Chloramphenicol 1% Eye Ointment
Active ingredient strength Chloramphenicol 0.5% Chloramphenicol 1%
Formulation Liquid eye drops Semi-solid ointment
Typical use Daytime use, every 2–4 hours Overnight use or as adjunct to drops
Vision after application Minimal blurring Temporary blurring (ointment base)

 

How Should You Store Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

 

Proper storage matters more than people often realise with eye drops. Before opening, store Optrex Infected Eye Drops below 25°C, away from direct sunlight. Once opened, keep the bottle in the fridge (2°C–8°C) and discard any remaining solution 28 days after first opening — even if the bottle is not empty. Using drops beyond this point risks contamination and potential worsening of your eye infection.

Always replace the cap tightly after each use and never allow the dropper tip to touch your eye or any other surface. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before instilling chloramphenicol eye drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting soft lenses. If you are managing other health concerns alongside an eye infection, our first aid range may also be useful.

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.

Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5% specifications
Treatment category Bacterial conjunctivitis
Mechanism of action Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis via 50S ribosomal subunit binding
Effective against Common bacterial causes of conjunctivitis (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae)
Suitable for Adults and children aged 2 years and over
Active ingredient Chloramphenicol 0.5% w/v
Pack size 10 ml
Strength 0.5% (5 mg/ml)
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Broad-spectrum antibiotic
Preparation Sterile aqueous eye drops
Route of administration Ophthalmic (topical)

Specifications of Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5%

 

What Is Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5% and What Is It Used For?

 

Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5% is a sterile ophthalmic solution containing chloramphenicol, a broad-spectrum antibiotic. It is used to treat acute bacterial conjunctivitis — commonly known as "sticky eye" or "pink eye" — in adults and children aged 2 years and over. Bacterial conjunctivitis causes redness, irritation, and a sticky yellow or green discharge that can cause the eyelids to crust together, particularly after sleep. This product is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it is available without a prescription but should be purchased under the supervision of a pharmacist.

It is important to understand that these drops will only work against bacterial infections. Viral conjunctivitis — which is often associated with a cold — and allergic conjunctivitis will not respond to antibiotic treatment. If you are unsure which type you have, your pharmacist can help you decide.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

 

Do not use these drops if any of the following apply to you:

  • You are allergic to chloramphenicol or any other ingredient in the formulation.
  • You or a family member have a history of aplastic anaemia or other blood disorders.
  • The person being treated is under 2 years of age.
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — seek medical advice before use.
  • You wear contact lenses — remove them before use and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting soft lenses.
  • Your symptoms have not improved after 5 days of treatment — see a GP.

Drug interactions with topical chloramphenicol eye drops are not considered clinically significant at standard ophthalmic doses. However, you should still inform your pharmacist of any other medicines you are taking, including prescription medicines and supplements. Known considerations include:

  • Concurrent use of other eye drops — leave at least 5 minutes between different eye preparations.
  • Systemic chloramphenicol — avoid using alongside topical preparations without medical advice.

 

How Should You Use Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

 

Always follow the instructions provided with the product or as directed by your pharmacist. Here is the correct method for instilling the drops:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle.
  2. Gently clean away any discharge from around the eye using a clean, damp cotton pad — wipe from the inner corner outward.
  3. Tilt your head back slightly and look upward.
  4. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  5. Hold the bottle above the eye (without touching the dropper tip to the eye or skin) and squeeze one to two drops into the pocket.
  6. Close your eye gently and press lightly on the inner corner for one to two minutes to help absorption.
  7. Repeat in the other eye if both are affected, using a fresh cotton pad to clean each eye separately.
  8. Replace the cap immediately after use.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Bacterial conjunctivitis (days 1–2) Adults & children ≥2 years 1–2 drops per affected eye Every 2 hours while awake
Bacterial conjunctivitis (days 3–5) Adults & children ≥2 years 1–2 drops per affected eye Every 4 hours while awake
Children under 2 years Under 2 years Not recommended — seek GP advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

 

Like all medicines, Optrex Infected Eye Drops can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you are concerned about any reaction, speak to your pharmacist or GP. You can also find general guidance on managing minor reactions through our allergy and hay fever section if you suspect a sensitivity reaction.

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

  • Brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after instilling the drops.
  • Temporary blurred vision lasting a few seconds to a minute.
  • Mild eye irritation or watering.

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

  • Localised allergic reaction — redness, swelling, or itching around the eye.
  • Superficial punctate keratitis (minor damage to the corneal surface) — rare.
  • Aplastic anaemia — an extremely rare but serious blood disorder associated with chloramphenicol; the risk from topical use is considered very low but is not zero.

Stop using the drops and seek urgent medical advice if you develop a severe allergic reaction (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash), or if your symptoms worsen significantly during treatment.

 

How Should You Store Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

 

  • Store below 25°C before opening.
  • After opening, store in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C.
  • Discard 28 days after first opening, even if solution 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 are managing multiple health conditions and need to keep track of several medicines, our electrical health and diagnostic range includes tools that may help you monitor your overall wellbeing 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 Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5% online in the UK?

You can buy Optrex Infected Eye Drops 0.5% directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £17.10. No prescription is required for adults and children aged 2 and over. Simply add to your basket and complete a short pharmacy questionnaire to confirm suitability before your order is dispatched.

How do Optrex Infected Eye Drops work in the body?

Optrex Infected Eye Drops contain chloramphenicol 0.5%, which works by binding to the 50S subunit of bacterial ribosomes and blocking protein synthesis. Without the ability to produce essential proteins, bacteria cannot replicate or survive. This bacteriostatic action allows your immune system to clear the remaining infection naturally over the course of treatment.

How do I use Optrex Infected Eye Drops step by step?

Follow these steps for correct instillation:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
  2. Clean any discharge from around the eye with a damp cotton pad, wiping from inner to outer corner.
  3. Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid.
  4. Squeeze one to two drops into the pocket formed, without touching the dropper tip to your eye.
  5. Close your eye gently and press the inner corner for one to two minutes.

Replace the cap immediately after use and wash your hands again.

How often should I use Optrex Infected Eye Drops each day?

During the first two days of treatment, instil one to two drops into the affected eye every two hours while you are awake. From day three onwards, reduce the frequency to every four hours. Always complete the full five-day course even if your symptoms improve before then, to prevent the infection from returning.

How long does it take for Optrex Infected Eye Drops to work?

Most people notice a meaningful improvement in redness, discharge, and discomfort within 48 hours of starting treatment. However, the full course of five days should always be completed. If there is no improvement after five days, or if symptoms worsen at any point, stop using the drops and consult your GP.

What are the side effects of Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

The most common side effects are mild and temporary, including:

  • A brief stinging or burning sensation after instillation.
  • Temporary blurred vision for a few seconds.
  • Mild eye watering or irritation.

Rarely, a localised allergic reaction may occur. An extremely rare but serious risk is aplastic anaemia — a blood disorder — though the risk from topical ophthalmic use is considered very low. Stop use and seek medical advice if you experience any unusual symptoms.

Who should not use Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

These drops are not suitable for children under 2 years of age, people with a personal or family history of aplastic anaemia or blood disorders, or anyone with a known allergy to chloramphenicol. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist before using. Contact lens wearers should remove lenses before use and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting soft lenses.

Can I use Optrex Infected Eye Drops if I wear contact lenses?

You should remove your contact lenses before instilling the drops and not reinsert soft contact lenses for at least 15 minutes afterwards. It is generally advisable to avoid wearing contact lenses altogether while you have an active eye infection, as lenses can harbour bacteria and prolong recovery. Switch to glasses until the infection has fully cleared.

What happens if I miss a dose of Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

If you miss a scheduled dose, instil the drops as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case simply skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not double up doses to compensate for a missed one. Consistency is important for effective treatment, so try to use the drops at regular intervals throughout the day.

Are Optrex Infected Eye Drops safe to use during pregnancy?

The safety of chloramphenicol eye drops during pregnancy has not been fully established, and the product is not recommended for use during pregnancy without medical supervision. If you are pregnant or think you might be, speak to your GP or midwife before starting treatment. They can advise on the most appropriate and safest option for your situation.

What are the alternatives to Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

The main OTC alternative is chloramphenicol 1% eye ointment, which is often used overnight alongside daytime drops for more severe infections. Other branded chloramphenicol 0.5% eye drops are also available. For allergic conjunctivitis, antihistamine eye drops are more appropriate, as antibiotics will not help. Always confirm the type of conjunctivitis with your pharmacist before choosing a treatment.

How long can I use Optrex Infected Eye Drops for?

The recommended treatment course is five days. You should not use these drops for longer than five days without seeking medical advice. Prolonged use of antibiotic eye drops can contribute to antibiotic resistance and may mask a more serious underlying condition. If symptoms persist beyond five days, see your GP for further assessment.

Can Optrex Infected Eye Drops be used for a stye or other eye conditions?

Optrex Infected Eye Drops are specifically indicated for bacterial conjunctivitis and are not licensed for treating styes, blepharitis, or other eye conditions. A stye (hordeolum) is a localised infection of the eyelid gland and typically requires warm compresses as first-line management. Speak to your pharmacist or GP if you are unsure whether these drops are appropriate for your specific condition.

How should I store Optrex Infected Eye Drops after opening?

After opening, store the bottle in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if solution remains, as the preservative system may no longer be effective beyond this point. Before opening, the drops can be stored below 25°C. Always keep the bottle out of reach of children and away from direct sunlight.

What is the latest guidance on treating bacterial conjunctivitis in the UK?

Current NHS guidance acknowledges that mild bacterial conjunctivitis often resolves on its own within one to two weeks without treatment. However, topical chloramphenicol eye drops remain the recommended first-line antibiotic treatment when treatment is needed, particularly to speed up recovery and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others. You can find a broader range of eye care products at Cured Pharmacy to support your recovery.

How Should You Use Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

Using eye drops correctly makes a real difference to how quickly your infection clears. Before you start, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Clean any discharge from around the eye using a clean, damp cotton pad, always wiping from the inner corner outward to avoid spreading bacteria.

Never share your eye drops with anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms. Sharing increases the risk of cross-contamination and spreading infection.

What Is the Correct Dose of Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

The dose varies depending on the stage of your treatment. During the first two days, more frequent dosing is needed to build up effective antibiotic levels in the eye. Always follow the dosage schedule below and do not exceed the recommended number of drops per dose.

When Is the Best Time to Use Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

Space your doses as evenly as possible throughout your waking hours to maintain consistent antibiotic levels in the eye. For example, if you are awake for 16 hours and dosing every four hours, you would use the drops approximately four times per day. Try to use them at the same times each day to build a routine and reduce the chance of missing a dose.

If you are also using chloramphenicol 1% eye ointment at night alongside these drops, apply the ointment last thing before sleep and use the drops during the day as directed. Leave at least five minutes between different eye preparations if you are using more than one product.

How Long Can You Use Optrex Infected Eye Drops For?

The standard treatment course is five days. You should complete the full course even if your symptoms improve before the five days are up — stopping early can allow the infection to return. Do not use these drops for longer than five days without seeking medical advice, as prolonged antibiotic use is not recommended and may mask a more serious condition requiring different treatment.

If your symptoms have not improved after five days, or if they worsen at any point during treatment, stop using the drops and consult your GP promptly.

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

How Should You Use Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

Using eye drops correctly makes a real difference to how quickly your infection clears. Before you start, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Clean any discharge from around the eye using a clean, damp cotton pad, always wiping from the inner corner outward to avoid spreading bacteria.

Never share your eye drops with anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms. Sharing increases the risk of cross-contamination and spreading infection.

What Is the Correct Dose of Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

The dose varies depending on the stage of your treatment. During the first two days, more frequent dosing is needed to build up effective antibiotic levels in the eye. Always follow the dosage schedule below and do not exceed the recommended number of drops per dose.

When Is the Best Time to Use Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

Space your doses as evenly as possible throughout your waking hours to maintain consistent antibiotic levels in the eye. For example, if you are awake for 16 hours and dosing every four hours, you would use the drops approximately four times per day. Try to use them at the same times each day to build a routine and reduce the chance of missing a dose.

If you are also using chloramphenicol 1% eye ointment at night alongside these drops, apply the ointment last thing before sleep and use the drops during the day as directed. Leave at least five minutes between different eye preparations if you are using more than one product.

How Long Can You Use Optrex Infected Eye Drops For?

The standard treatment course is five days. You should complete the full course even if your symptoms improve before the five days are up — stopping early can allow the infection to return. Do not use these drops for longer than five days without seeking medical advice, as prolonged antibiotic use is not recommended and may mask a more serious condition requiring different treatment.

If your symptoms have not improved after five days, or if they worsen at any point during treatment, stop using the drops and consult your GP promptly.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

Most people tolerate Optrex Infected Eye Drops well, and any side effects that do occur are usually mild and short-lived. The most frequently reported reactions happen immediately after instilling the drops and typically resolve within a minute or two.

  • Brief stinging or burning sensation in the eye immediately after instillation.
  • Temporary blurred vision lasting a few seconds to around one minute.
  • Mild watering or tearing of the eye.
  • A slight feeling of eye irritation or grittiness.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

Less commonly, some people may experience a more noticeable reaction to the drops. These side effects are not typical but are worth being aware of before you start treatment.

  • Localised allergic reaction — redness, swelling, or itching around the eye or eyelid.
  • Superficial punctate keratitis — minor, usually reversible damage to the surface of the cornea.
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).
  • Eyelid swelling or contact dermatitis around the eye area.

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

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Optrex Infected Eye Drops?

Serious side effects from topical chloramphenicol eye drops are extremely rare, but they are important to know about. Aplastic anaemia — a potentially life-threatening condition in which the bone marrow fails to produce enough blood cells — has been associated with systemic chloramphenicol use. The risk from topical ophthalmic use is considered very low, but it is not zero, which is why people with a personal or family history of blood disorders should not use these drops without medical supervision.

Signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread skin rash. This is a medical emergency — call 999 immediately if you experience these symptoms.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as brief stinging or temporary blurring, no action is usually needed — these typically resolve within moments of instilling the drops. If irritation persists or worsens, stop using the drops and seek pharmacist advice. Do not continue using the drops if you develop signs of an allergic reaction around the eye, as this may indicate a sensitivity to chloramphenicol or another ingredient in the formulation.

Always report any unexpected or concerning side effects to your pharmacist or GP. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Optrex Infected Eye Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

Clinically significant drug interactions with topical chloramphenicol eye drops are not well documented at standard ophthalmic doses. However, if you are using any other eye drops or eye preparations at the same time, leave at least five minutes between each product to prevent dilution and ensure each medicine is properly absorbed. Avoid using alongside systemic (oral or intravenous) chloramphenicol without medical advice. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

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

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery