Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Eye Ointment (4g)

Product Summary

Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Eye Ointment is used to treat bacterial infections of the eye such as conjunctivitis.

Directions

For adults and children over 2 years:

• Apply a small amount of the ointment (around 1 cm) into the space between the lower eyelid and the eye, 3 to 4 times daily.
• It is important to apply the treatment continuously for 5 days.

Ingredients

• Active ingredient: Chloramphenicol 1% w/w
• Other ingredients: Liquid Paraffin, white petroleum

Warnings and Restrictions

• For use in and around the eye area only.
• Do not use this ointment for more than 5 days without consulting your doctor.
• Discard any remaining ointment after 5 days treatment has been completed.
• Do not breathe on or touch the nozzle of the tube.
• Do not let the nozzle of the tube touch your eye or eyelid.
• Do not share the tube with anyone else as you may spread your infection.
• This ointment can sometimes cause blurred vision for a short while after administration.
• You must not drive or operate machinery until you can see clearly again.
• If symptoms do not improve after 48 hours, consult your doctor.
• Please consult your pharmacist or doctor before using this medicine if you are currently pregnant, likely to get pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Please consult your pharmacist or doctor if you are currently taking any other medicines, as this may cause an interaction.

If you think you may be allergic to any of the ingredients contained in this medicine, please seek medical advice before using it.

Please speak to your pharmacist if you have any questions after you have bought this medication.

Pharmacist FAQs Answered

How is this eye ointment different from other conjunctivitis eye treatments?

Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis eye ointment is an antibiotic (infection-killing) gel (chloramphenicol) applied to the eye, usually at bedtime. Because it is thick and long acting, doctors tend to give it in bed so that it can "work while you sleep". Antibiotic eye drops are watery and allow you to see normally during the day, since they "don't interfere with your eyesight". Both drops and ointment fight the same germs that cause pink eye. The ointment makes your vision blurry for a short time, but it stays longer inside the eye. In milder cases, plain tears or antibiotic drops might be all you need, but in stubborn infections, this ointment helps them heal faster.

What can I expect during my recovery from bacterial conjunctivitis?

Everyone recovers at a different pace, but usually you'll see some improvement within 1–3 days. Continue applying the ointment for an additional 5 days (a full course) even if your eye improves earlier. This will ensure the infection clears fully. In the morning, gently remove any sticky crust or discharge from beneath your eyelids with clean, cold water before putting in the medicine. Your eye should become less red, itchy and sore each day. Usually by day 2 or 3, you should notice a reduction in redness and stickiness. If, after two days of ointment, your eye is still as bad or getting worse, or if pain or swelling increases, consult a doctor urgently.

Why might my vision be blurred after using the ointment, and what should I do?

It is normal for eyesight to be cloudy or fuzzy right after instilling the ointment. The oily medicine covers the eye temporarily and obscures clear vision. This will only last for a minute or two as you blink and the ointment spreads out. During this time of cloudy eyesight, do not attempt to do anything that requires clear eyesight, such as reading fine print, driving a bicycle, or using any devices. Give it a minute with your eyes closed, and your sight should return to normal. If it remains very blurred within a minute or two, gently rub the outside of your eyelids with a clean handkerchief. If blurring persists or eye pain worsens, stop using the ointment and consult a pharmacist or doctor.

Can I wear my eye makeup or contact lenses while on this ointment?

No – avoid wearing either contacts or eye makeup at all during treatment. Contact lenses can create a breeding ground for bacteria, and the ointment used in the eye can hinder healing. Avoid lenses and wear glasses and wait at least 24 hours after you have discontinued the ointment before inserting lenses. Also, get rid of any eye makeup, brushes, or applicators you used right before your eyes became infected. Bacteria can get stuck in older products and infect them again in your eyes. Always wash your hands before and after you touch your eyes. Avoid sharing pillowcases and towels, and wash them frequently in hot water to prevent the spread of germs.

What if my eye infection doesn't improve or gets worse?

If your eye is not better much after two days from the application of the ointment, or if it gets worse, becomes very sensitive to light, or your vision gets worse, consult a doctor immediately. Discontinue use of the ointment and report the incident to a doctor or pharmacist. They may examine your eyes and prescribe a different medication if necessary. Do not use more than 5 days in succession without consulting a doctor. Using more than this may cause additional issues. Always follow the directions on the label or consult your pharmacist for safe removal of the infection.