Oftan Dexa-Chlora (Chloramphenicol, Dexamethasone)

Oftan Dexa‑Chloro combines chloramphenicol and dexamethasone to address bacterial and inflammatory ocular conditions.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis: reduces bacterial load and resolves infection symptoms.
• Post‑operative eye inflammation: diminishes swelling and discomfort after eye surgery.
• Allergic keratoconjunctivitis: controls inflammation and relieves itching and redness.
• Corneal ulcer prophylaxis: helps prevent secondary bacterial infection in compromised corneas.
• Traumatic eye injury: limits inflammation and infection risk in ocular trauma.

• Chloramphenicol inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, while dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, binds glucocorticoid receptors to suppress inflammatory cytokine production and reduce vascular permeability. The combination provides simultaneous antimicrobial activity and anti‑inflammatory effects at the site of ocular application.

Oftan Dexa‑Chloro may cause local and systemic adverse reactions, although many patients tolerate it well.

Common Side Effects

• Burning or stinging sensation on instillation.
• Temporary blurred vision.
• Mild ocular irritation or redness.
• Foreign‑body sensation.
• Mild eyelid edema.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic contact dermatitis.
• Secondary ocular infection with resistant organisms.
• Increased intra‑ocular pressure.
• Corneal thinning or ulceration.
• Systemic bone‑marrow suppression (rare with extensive use).
• Vision loss due to severe inflammation or infection.

When using Oftan Dexa‑Chloro, follow safety guidelines to minimize risks.

• Indications review: confirm bacterial infection and need for steroid therapy.
• Duration limit: avoid prolonged use beyond prescribed period.
• Monitor IOP: check intra‑ocular pressure in patients at risk of glaucoma.
• Systemic absorption: caution in patients with known chloramphenicol hypersensitivity.
• Pregnancy & lactation: use only if clearly needed, after risk‑benefit assessment.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from light and moisture.

Oftan Dexa‑Chloro can interact with other ophthalmic agents and systemic drugs.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent use of other topical corticosteroids: may amplify steroid‑related side effects.
• Systemic chloramphenicol: increases risk of bone‑marrow toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory eye drops: may affect healing.
• Antiviral eye preparations (e.g., acyclovir): monitor for reduced efficacy.
• Antifungal eye drops: assess for potential antagonism.
• Contact lens wear: may retain drug residues, increasing exposure.
• Systemic immunosuppressants: watch for heightened infection risk.