Generic Chloromycetin

Chemical Name: CHLORAMPHENICOL

Common uses

This medicine is an antibiotic used to treat eye infections.

Before using

Warning: very rarely, serious, even fatal, blood disorders (e.g., bone marrow hypoplasia, aplastic anemia) have occurred while using this medicine. Do not use chloramphenicol if safer, effective medicines can be used. Immediately notify your doctor if you have easy bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat, fever, or unusual fatigue. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions or allergies.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. To use this medicine, first, wash your hands. Tilt your head back and, with your index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Drop the medicine into the pouch and gently close your eyes. Do not blink and keep your eyes closed for 1 or 2 minutes. Remove excess medicine around your eye with a clean tissue, being careful not to touch your eye. Wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them. To prevent germs from entering your medicine, do not touch the applicator tip to any surface including your eye. Wipe it with a clean tissue. Keep the container tightly closed.

Store this medicine as directed on the prescription label. To clear up your infection completely, continue using this medicine for the full course of treatment even if your symptoms disappear in a few days. Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Cautions

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your doctor. It is usually recommended that you do not wear contact lenses while using this medicine. Check with your doctor before wearing them. Sterilize contact lenses according to manufacturer's directions.

Possible side effects

A side effect, that may go away during treatment, is stinging upon application. If it continues or is bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience redness, irritation, swelling, or continued stinging. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.