Topical chloramphenicol for eye infections

Hong Kong Med J. 2002 Feb;8(1):44-7.

Abstract

Topical chloramphenicol has been widely used in the treatment and prevention of superficial eye infections due to its broad spectrum of activity and low cost. The use of this drug has decreased considerably in the United States since the first case of aplastic anaemia associated with topical chloramphenicol was reported in the 1960s. This medication, however, is still widely used in many other countries. This paper evaluates the evidence for and against the use of topical chloramphenicol in ocular diseases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Anemia, Aplastic / chemically induced
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects*
  • Chloramphenicol / administration & dosage
  • Chloramphenicol / adverse effects*
  • Eye Infections, Bacterial / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Ophthalmic Solutions

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Ophthalmic Solutions
  • Chloramphenicol