Kloramfenikol Santen (Chloramphenicol)

Chloramphenicol ophthalmic solution is used to manage bacterial infections of the eye surface and related structures.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis: reduces bacterial load and relieves redness, discharge and irritation.
• Bacterial keratitis: helps eradicate pathogenic bacteria and supports corneal healing.
• Blepharitis: controls bacterial overgrowth on eyelid margins, decreasing inflammation and crusting.

• Chloramphenicol inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing peptide chain elongation. This action halts bacterial growth and leads to the elimination of susceptible ocular pathogens, thereby controlling infection and promoting recovery of ocular tissues.

Adverse reactions may occur with ocular use of chloramphenicol.

Common Side Effects

• Mild eye irritation or burning sensation.
• Transient redness of the conjunctiva.
• Temporary blurred vision after instillation.
• Minor eyelid swelling.
• Mild itching or foreign‑body sensation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic contact dermatitis of the eyelid or peri‑ocular skin.
• Severe ocular inflammation or keratitis not improving with therapy.
• Development of resistant bacterial strains.
• Rare systemic absorption leading to bone marrow suppression (very uncommon with topical use).

When using chloramphenicol eye drops, consider the following safety measures.

• Allergy assessment: avoid use if known hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol or other phenicol antibiotics.
• Pregnancy and lactation: consult a healthcare professional before use, as safety data are limited.
• Duration of therapy: limit use to the prescribed period to reduce resistance risk.
• Contact lens wearers: remove lenses before instillation and wait before reinserting.
• Pediatric use: follow prescriber guidance, especially in newborns.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Chloramphenicol eye drops can interact with other ophthalmic agents and systemic medications.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent use with other topical antibiotics that share the same mechanism, which may increase toxicity.
• Co‑administration with ophthalmic corticosteroids in infected eyes, as steroids can mask infection signs.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Systemic aminoglycosides: monitor for additive ototoxicity if systemic exposure occurs.
• Anticoagulants: observe for any unexpected bleeding if systemic absorption is significant.
• Other ocular preparations (e.g., mydriatics): stagger administration times to prevent dilution or reduced efficacy.