Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% Eye Ointment – 4g
£7.99
In Stock
Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% Eye Ointment is an antibiotic eye ointment used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis (also known as “pink eye”) in adults and children aged 2 years and over. It helps to clear the infection and relieve symptoms such as redness, itching, and sticky or watery discharge from the eye.
Description
Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% Eye Ointment – 4g
Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% Eye Ointment is an antibiotic eye ointment used to treat bacterial conjunctivitis (also known as “pink eye”) in adults and children aged 2 years and over. It helps to clear the infection and relieve symptoms such as redness, itching, and sticky or watery discharge from the eye.
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How It Works
The active ingredient, chloramphenicol, is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that works by stopping the bacteria responsible for the infection from making the proteins they need to survive and multiply. This kills off the bacteria and allows the eye to heal, with most people seeing improvement within 5 days of starting treatment.
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Directions for Use
Apply approximately 1 cm of ointment to the inside of the lower eyelid of the affected eye(s) up to 4 times daily, or as directed. For best results, use at regular intervals throughout the day and continue treatment for the full recommended course (usually 5 days), even if symptoms improve. The ointment may temporarily blur your vision after application. This medicine is suitable for adults and children aged 2 years and over; do not use in children under 2 years. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.
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Active Ingredients
• Chloramphenicol 1% w/w (10 mg per gram of ointment)
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Possible Side Effects
• Temporary blurred vision immediately after applying the ointment
• Mild stinging, burning, or irritation in the eye
• Itching or redness of the eye or eyelid
• Swelling of the eyelid
• In rare cases, an allergic reaction (signs include severe redness, swelling, or rash around the eye)
If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice immediately.
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Who Should Not Take This Medicine
• People who are allergic to chloramphenicol or any other ingredient in the ointment
• Children under 2 years of age
• People with a personal or family history of blood disorders (such as aplastic anaemia)
• Contact lens wearers — do not wear contact lenses while using this product
• People whose symptoms are caused by a viral or fungal eye infection (this medicine only treats bacterial infections)
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Interactions
Chloramphenicol eye ointment is not known to interact significantly with most other medicines when used topically. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments at the same time, leave at least 5 minutes between applying each product, and apply ointments last. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.
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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
The safety of chloramphenicol eye ointment during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established. It is generally recommended to avoid use during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, unless advised by a doctor. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.
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Alcohol
There is no known interaction between alcohol and chloramphenicol eye ointment when used as a topical eye treatment. Alcohol consumption is not expected to affect the safety or effectiveness of this product.
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Driving and Operating Machinery
This ointment may cause temporary blurred vision immediately after application, which could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Do not drive or use machinery until your vision has fully cleared after applying the ointment.
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Storage
Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Once opened, discard the tube after 4 weeks to reduce the risk of infection. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.
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Important Information
• This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any other medication or complementary therapy.
• If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your doctor.
• If pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, seek medical advice before use.
• If you suffer from allergies, confirm suitability with your PillSorted pharmacist before use.
• Store out of sight and reach of children.
• Read the enclosed patient information leaflet carefully before use.
• Contact your GP where appropriate.
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Patient Information Leaflet
For the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for this medicine, visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). For further information about this medicine, visit NHS.uk.
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This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: February 2026.
| Weight | 0.03 kg |
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| Brand | Optrex |
