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Antibiotic — broad-spectrum

Chloramphenicol

Brand names: Chloromycetin, Optrex Infected Eyes

Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibacterial used topically for bacterial eye infections such as conjunctivitis and, systemically, reserved for serious infections such as certain forms of meningitis where alternatives are unsuitable.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding the 50S ribosomal subunit and blocking peptidyl transferase activity, giving a predominantly bacteriostatic effect.

Prescribing in practice

  • Systemic use carries a risk of serious, dose-independent aplastic anaemia and bone-marrow suppression, so systemic therapy is reserved for serious infections without safer alternatives.
  • Systemic use is avoided in late pregnancy and the neonatal period because of the risk of grey baby syndrome.
  • Topical ocular use is widely used and generally well tolerated for short courses.

Monitoring

During systemic therapy, monitor the full blood count closely for marrow suppression, and review duration carefully.

Counselling the patient

  • For eye preparations, report any worsening, persistent or spreading eye symptoms.
  • Seek medical advice promptly if you develop unexplained bruising, bleeding, sore throat or fever during systemic treatment.

Evidence & guidelines

Its reserved systemic role and topical ocular use are well established in UK prescribing references and microbiology guidance.

Reference: NICE CKS; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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