Indications:

Chloramphenicol is indicated for the topical treatment of infections due to micro-organisms sensitive to the anti-infective.

Contraindications:

"Adults (including the Elderly) and Children One to two drops applied topically to each affected eye up to six times daily or more frequently if required. (Severe infections may require one to two drops every fifteen to twenty minutes initially, reducing the frequency of instillation gradually as the infection is controlled)."

Adverse reactions:

Local Sensitivity reactions such as transient irritation, burning, stinging, itching and dermatitis, may occasionally occur. Systemic Rarely, cases of major adverse haematological events (bone marrow depression, aplastic anaemia and death) have been reported following ocular use of chloramphenicol.

Interactions:

Chymotrypsin will be inhibited if given simultaneously with chloramphenicol.

Warnings:

In severe infections topical use of chloramphenicol should be supplemented with appropriate systemic treatment. Aplastic anaemia has, very rarely, followed topical use of chloramphenicol eye drops and, whilst this hazard is an uncommon one, it should be borne in mind when the benefits of the use of chloramphenicol are assessed. Prolonged use should be avoided as it may increase the likelihood of sensitisation and the emergence of resistant organisms. Chloramphenicol should be reserved for use only in infections for which it is specifically indicated. Contact lenses should be removed during the period of treatment. Systemic absorption may be reduced by compressing the lacrimal sac at the medial canthus for a minute during and following the instillation of the drops. (This blocks the passage of the drops via the naso lacrimal duct to the wide absorptive area of the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa. It is especially advisable in children.)

Form:

SOLUTION FOR INJECTION