Oftan Dexa-Chlora (Chloramphenicol, Dexamethasone)

Oftan Dexa-Chlora combines an antibiotic and a corticosteroid to manage bacterial and inflammatory eye disorders.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis: reduces bacterial load and associated inflammation.
• Keratitis: eradicates causative bacteria while controlling corneal inflammation.
• Post‑operative ocular inflammation: limits swelling and prevents infection after eye surgery.
• Anterior uveitis: suppresses intra‑ocular inflammation and treats secondary bacterial involvement.

• Chloramphenicol inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing peptide chain formation. Dexamethasone penetrates ocular tissues and binds intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, altering gene transcription to suppress pro‑inflammatory cytokines, reduce vascular permeability, and stabilize lysosomal membranes, thereby providing anti‑inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects.

Adverse reactions may occur with ocular use of this combination product.

Common Side Effects

• Stinging or burning sensation on instillation.
• Transient blurred vision.
• Conjunctival hyperemia.
• Increased tearing.
• Mild ocular irritation.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic contact dermatitis or severe hypersensitivity.
• Secondary ocular infection or corneal ulceration.
• Elevated intra‑ocular pressure leading to glaucoma.
• Cataract formation with prolonged use.
• Systemic bone‑marrow suppression (rare with extensive absorption).

Before prescribing, clinicians should consider safety aspects specific to ocular corticosteroid‑antibiotic combinations.

• Allergy assessment: avoid if known hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol, dexamethasone, or excipients.
• Duration of therapy: limit use to the shortest effective period to reduce risk of cataract or glaucoma.
• Monitoring: assess intra‑ocular pressure periodically during prolonged treatment.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if potential benefit outweighs risk; data are limited.
• Pediatric use: exercise caution, especially in neonates, due to systemic absorption concerns.
• Store at room temperature: keep in original container, protect from light and moisture.

Oftan Dexa-Chlora may interact with systemic or topical agents that affect ocular pressure or bone‑marrow function.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Systemic corticosteroids: additive risk of intra‑ocular hypertension.
• Systemic chloramphenicol: increased potential for bone‑marrow suppression.
• Other topical steroids: cumulative effect on intra‑ocular pressure.
• MAO inhibitors: possible enhancement of chloramphenicol toxicity.
• Antifungal agents (e.g., azoles): may alter ocular drug metabolism.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Topical non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs: may increase ocular irritation.
• Antihistamine eye drops: could reduce drug absorption.
• Systemic immunosuppressants: monitor for infection risk.