What is Chloromycetin Aplicap

Chloromycetin Aplicap is a topical ophthalmic ointment used to treat bacterial eye infections like Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) and Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye). It contains Chloramphenicol 1% (w/v), a broad-spectrum, FDA-approved antibiotic. It is manufactured by Pfizer Ltd., a global pharmaceutical leader with GMP-compliant manufacturing facilities.

Chloramphenicol works by binding to the bacterial ribosome and preventing the synthesis of proteins vital to bacterial survival. This mechanism helps prevent the growth of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, which are common causes of Bacterial eye infections.

The Chloramphenicol ointment within the gelatin Aplicap capsule allows direct application to the eye and provides localized action. The typical dosing schedule for Chloromycetin Aplicap is once every 2-4 hours, or as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Simply, sterilise the tip of the Aplicap with alcohol, cut the end, and gently compress it to squeeze the solution onto the affected eye.

Do not use for more than 5 days or the prescribed duration without consulting your doctor. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. But skip it if it’s close to the next one. In case of an overdose or excessive application, rinse your eye thoroughly with water and seek medical help.

While Chloromycetin is well tolerated, you may experience temporary side effects, including mild eye irritation, a burning sensation, or redness and swelling at the application site. If one or more of these persist or worsen, discontinue use and consult your ophthalmologist.

Individuals allergic to Chloramphenicol should avoid Chloromycetin. Caution is advised in people with a history of photosensitivity, Glaucoma, Dry Eye Syndrome, or recent eye surgery. It is also not recommended for neonates or infants under one week old due to the potential risk of toxicity. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be medically supervised.

Store Chloromycetin Aplicaps in a refrigerator between 2°C-8°C, away from heat and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children.

What are the benefits of taking Chloromycetin Aplicap

Chloromycetin Aplicap provides targeted antibiotic treatment for bacterial eye infections. Its key benefits and uses include:

• Effective for Conjunctivitis and Blepharitis: It helps reduce symptoms like redness, pus discharge, and irritation in Bacterial Pink Eye and eyelid infections like Blepharitis.
• Broad-spectrum action: Chloramphenicol acts against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella species.
• Localized action: The ointment form allows for direct, targeted application to the infected eye. This reduces the risk of systemic (whole-body) side effects compared to oral antibiotics.
• Prevents bacterial resistance: Completing the prescribed course of treatment helps prevent the risk of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

How to use Chloromycetin Aplicap

Chloromycetin Aplicap should be used as directed by your healthcare provider. Here’s how to use it correctly:

• Wipe the tip of the Aplicap with alcohol to sanitize before use.
• Using a clean instrument, cut off the tip of the Aplicap to release the solution.
• Gently compress the body of the Aplicap to squeeze the ointment directly into the affected eye.
• Do not allow the tip of the Aplicap to touch any surface, including the eye or eyelids, to avoid contamination.
• Close your eyes for 2 minutes after use.
• Before using another eye medication in the same eye, wait 5-10 minutes.

Strengths and Substitutes

Chloromycetin is available as a bottle containing 50 Aplicaps. Cheap Medicine Shop offers other Chloramphenicol ophthalmic ointments at affordable prices. Some substitutes to discuss with your ophthalmologist include:

View all substitutes

What are the side effects of Chloromycetin Aplicap ointment

Chloromycetin Aplicap can cause some mild and temporary side effects, such as:

• Stinging sensation
• Burning feeling
• Eye irritation
• Blurred vision
• Redness
• Watery eyes

Consult a healthcare provider if severe eye pain, swelling, persistent eye discharge or vision disturbance occurs. Although rare, if you feel tired or bruise easily, seek immediate medical attention, as this could indicate Aplastic Anemia (insufficient).

Safety Advice

Liver Disease

Chloromycetin is minimally absorbed systemically, so it is generally safe for individuals with liver disease.

Kidney Impairment

Since Chloromycetin is applied topically and acts locally, it is typically safe to use in people with kidney disease.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding women

Chloramphenicol should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It should only be used if the potential benefit outweighs the possible risk to the baby.

Avoid

Do not use Chloromycetin Aplicap if you have a known allergy to Chloramphenicol. Avoid use if you have a history of photosensitivity, Glaucoma, Conjunctivitis, Dry Eye Syndrome, or eye surgery in the last 6 months. Do not wear contact lenses during treatment. Avoid driving, cycling or operating machinery until vision clears after application.