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.
Chloromycetin Aplicap provides targeted antibiotic treatment for bacterial eye infections. Its key benefits and uses include:
Chloromycetin Aplicap should be used as directed by your healthcare provider. Here’s how to use it correctly:
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:
| Chlorocol 3 gm | $ 3.70/1 tube |
| Ocupol 5 gm | $ 3.70/1 tube |
Chloromycetin Aplicap can cause some mild and temporary side effects, such as:
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).
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.
Chloromycetin Aplicap typically begins to show improvement in symptoms within 24 to 48 hours of use. If symptoms persist or worsen beyond 72 hours, consult your ophthalmologist for further advice.
You should use Chloromycetin Aplicap for the complete prescribed duration, even after symptoms improve, to ensure complete clearance of infection. Do not stop using the ointment prematurely, as it can lead to recurrence of bacterial infections.
Yes, Bacterial Conjunctivitis remains contagious until the infection is cleared. Practice good ocular hygiene and thorough handwashing before and after using Chloramphenicol ointment. Avoid close contact with others and do not touch the applicator tip to any surface to prevent contamination.
No, in most countries, Chloramphenicol eye drops or ointment are not available over the counter. You require a valid prescription to purchase this topical antibiotic for bacterial eye infection.
No, Chloromycetin Aplicap is not suitable for treating allergic or viral eye infections. It is effective only for eye infections caused by gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Consult your ophthalmologist for proper diagnosis and treatment of other non-bacterial conditions.
Yes, Chloromycetin eye ointment can be used in children aged 1 year and above under medical supervision. A pediatric ophthalmologist will determine the appropriate dose based on the child’s age and the severity of the infection. However, it is not recommended for newborns.
If you accidentally apply too much Chloramphenicol, rinse your eye immediately with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. If you experience pain, swelling, eye discharge, excessive tears, or sensitivity to light after application, contact a healthcare provider for guidance.
Individuals who are allergic to Chloramphenicol or any other component should avoid Chloromycetin Aplicaps. It should also be avoided by those with bone marrow suppression or a history of blood disorders. Caution is also advised for use in children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with pre-existing eye conditions.
Neither is inherently better, as both Chloramphenicol and Ciprofloxacin are effective antibiotics for treating eye infections. The choice will be made by an ophthalmologist based on the type of bacteria, the severity of infection, your age and medical history.