Chloramphenicol Eye Drops
Also known as: Optrex Infected Eyes, Golden Eye
What it's for
Chloramphenicol treats bacterial eye infections like conjunctivitis. It is an antibiotic that kills bacteria causing the infection. It usually clears the infection within a few days.
Comes as: Eye drops or eye ointment
How to take it
- Eye drops: 1 drop every 2 to 4 hours for the first 2 days, then 4 times daily.
- Eye ointment: Apply at night if using drops during the day, or 3-4 times daily alone.
- Continue for 48 hours after the infection clears.
- Complete the full 5-day course.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Temporary stinging when applied
- Blurred vision for a few minutes after use
- Red eyes
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Wash your hands before and after applying
- Do not wear contact lenses while using
- Do not share with others to prevent spreading infection
- Store in the fridge once opened
Get medical help urgently if…
- Your eye is very painful
- Your vision is affected or getting worse
- You have a rash around your eye
- The infection does not improve after 2 days of treatment
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.