Optichlor
Generic Name
Chloramphenicol 1% Eye Ointment
Manufacturer
Popular Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| optichlor 1 eye ointment | ৳ 12.09 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Optichlor-1 Eye Ointment contains Chloramphenicol, a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections of the eye.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Apply a small amount (approximately 1 cm strip) into the conjunctival sac 3-4 times daily for 5-7 days. The treatment should be continued for at least 48 hours after the eye appears normal.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage. No specific dosage adjustment required.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment necessary for ophthalmic use as systemic absorption is minimal.
How to Take
Wash hands thoroughly before and after application. Pull down the lower eyelid to form a small pocket. Squeeze a thin strip of ointment (about 1 cm) into the pocket. Close the eye gently for 1-2 minutes. Avoid touching the tube tip to the eye or any other surface. Do not wear contact lenses during treatment.
Mechanism of Action
Chloramphenicol inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding reversibly to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing peptide bond formation and subsequent protein elongation.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Clinical improvement often seen within 1-2 days.
Excretion
Systemic excretion primarily via urine as metabolites. Minimal local excretion through tear film turnover.
Half life
Systemic half-life not clinically relevant for topical ocular use; local half-life in ocular tissues varies.
Absorption
Minimal systemic absorption occurs following ophthalmic application. Locally, it penetrates ocular tissues effectively.
Metabolism
Minimal local metabolism. If absorbed systemically, primarily metabolized in the liver via glucuronidation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol or any component of the formulation.
- History of bone marrow depression or blood dyscrasias (e.g., aplastic anemia) with previous chloramphenicol use.
- Family history of blood dyscrasias.
Drug Interactions
Other ophthalmic preparations
If using other eye drops or ointments, apply them at least 5-10 minutes apart. Ointments should generally be applied last.
Systemic bone marrow depressants
Though systemic absorption is minimal, theoretical risk of increased bone marrow depression exists if co-administered with other myelosuppressive drugs. (Of limited clinical significance for ophthalmic use).
Storage
Store below 25°C in a dry place, protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose with ophthalmic application is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity due to minimal absorption. Local overdose may cause increased ocular irritation, burning, stinging, or redness. If accidentally ingested, seek medical attention immediately. Management would be symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Chloramphenicol ophthalmic should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult a doctor. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother. It is generally advised to avoid during the third trimester of pregnancy and while breastfeeding due to theoretical risk of 'grey baby syndrome' if significant systemic absorption occurs.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol or any component of the formulation.
- History of bone marrow depression or blood dyscrasias (e.g., aplastic anemia) with previous chloramphenicol use.
- Family history of blood dyscrasias.
Drug Interactions
Other ophthalmic preparations
If using other eye drops or ointments, apply them at least 5-10 minutes apart. Ointments should generally be applied last.
Systemic bone marrow depressants
Though systemic absorption is minimal, theoretical risk of increased bone marrow depression exists if co-administered with other myelosuppressive drugs. (Of limited clinical significance for ophthalmic use).
Storage
Store below 25°C in a dry place, protected from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose with ophthalmic application is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity due to minimal absorption. Local overdose may cause increased ocular irritation, burning, stinging, or redness. If accidentally ingested, seek medical attention immediately. Management would be symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Chloramphenicol ophthalmic should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult a doctor. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing mother. It is generally advised to avoid during the third trimester of pregnancy and while breastfeeding due to theoretical risk of 'grey baby syndrome' if significant systemic absorption occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24-36 months (unopened). Discard 28 days after opening.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Chloramphenicol is an established antibiotic with a long history of clinical use. Extensive clinical data supports its efficacy in treating various bacterial eye infections. Modern trials might focus on comparative efficacy or resistance patterns rather than initial approval.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine lab monitoring is generally not required for ophthalmic chloramphenicol due to minimal systemic absorption. For prolonged or extensive use, or in high-risk individuals, blood counts may be considered to monitor for potential bone marrow suppression (extremely rare).
Doctor Notes
- Prescribe only for confirmed or suspected bacterial eye infections; avoid empirical use for viral or fungal infections.
- Review patient's condition if no improvement within 48-72 hours of treatment initiation.
- Advise patients on proper application technique and hygiene to minimize contamination and optimize efficacy.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve to prevent recurrence.
- Do not share your eye ointment with others.
- Remove contact lenses before application and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting (or avoid during treatment).
- Avoid touching the tip of the tube to the eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
This ointment may cause temporary blurred vision immediately after application. Do not drive or operate machinery until your vision is clear.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain good eye hygiene. Wash hands frequently, especially before touching eyes.
- Avoid rubbing eyes excessively during an infection.
- If you wear makeup, discard old eye makeup and use fresh products once the infection clears.
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