Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis (Chloramphenicol)

Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis, containing chloramphenicol, is used to treat bacterial infections of the eye.

• Bacterial conjunctivitis: eliminates pathogenic bacteria, relieving redness, discharge, and irritation.
• Post‑operative ocular infection: prevents bacterial colonisation after eye surgery, supporting healing.
• Contact lens‑associated keratitis: treats the bacterial component of keratitis when prescribed by an eye‑care professional.

• Chloramphenicol exerts its antibacterial effect by binding to the 50S subunit of bacterial ribosomes. This binding blocks the peptidyl transferase activity, preventing the addition of amino acids to the growing peptide chain and thereby inhibiting protein synthesis. The resulting bacteriostatic action curtails bacterial replication in the ocular surface, allowing the host immune system to clear the infection and promotes resolution of clinical signs.

Chloramphenicol ophthalmic solution may cause local and systemic adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Eye irritation: mild burning or stinging at instillation, usually brief.
• Transient blurred vision: temporary reduction in clarity that resolves quickly.
• Conjunctival hyperemia: mild redness of the eye lasting a short time.
• Increased tear production: watery eyes after use, generally self‑limiting.
• Photophobia: increased sensitivity to light after application.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic reaction: swelling, itching or rash around the eye, requiring discontinuation.
• Aplastic anemia: rare systemic bone‑marrow suppression, potentially life‑threatening.
• Severe ocular inflammation: persistent pain or worsening redness indicating serious toxicity.

When using Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis, several precautions should be observed to ensure safety and effectiveness.

• Allergy assessment: confirm no known hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol or other amphenicols.
• Indication verification: use only for bacterial conjunctivitis confirmed by a healthcare professional.
• Contact lens use: remove lenses before instillation and wait before reinserting, unless advised otherwise.
• Duration of therapy: follow the prescriber’s recommended treatment length; do not exceed without guidance.
• Systemic absorption: avoid excessive use to minimize risk of systemic side effects.
• Store at room temperature below 25°C: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Chloramphenicol ophthalmic can interact with certain systemic and topical agents; awareness of these interactions helps prevent adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Systemic chloramphenicol: concurrent systemic therapy may increase risk of bone‑marrow toxicity.
• Other ophthalmic antibiotics: mixing may cause antagonism or reduced efficacy.
• Live vaccines: systemic absorption could theoretically diminish vaccine response; avoid concurrent use.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Topical non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): monitor for increased ocular irritation.
• Systemic anticoagulants: observe for enhanced bleeding tendency if systemic absorption occurs.
• Alcohol: excessive consumption may potentiate rare systemic side effects.