Description
Overview
How does Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g) treat infection? Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g) contains the active ingredient chloramphenicol at a concentration of 1%. Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is effective against a wide variety of bacteria that commonly cause eye infections. Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment works by inhibiting the production of essential proteins within the bacterial cells. Specifically it binds to the bacterial ribosomes and prevents the addition of amino acids to the growing peptide chains. By blocking this vital protein synthesis Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment stops the bacteria from growing and multiplying which allows the body’s immune system to overcome the remaining infection and clear the symptoms.
Why is Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g) often recommended for night use? Unlike liquid eye drops which are washed away relatively quickly by the natural tear flow Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment has a thick and viscous consistency. This formulation allows the antibiotic to remain in contact with the surface of the eye for a much longer period which ensures a sustained therapeutic effect. However the thickness of the ointment causes temporary blurred vision immediately after application. For this reason many patients use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment at night before going to sleep to provide long-lasting overnight treatment without disrupting their daily activities while using drops during the day.
What symptoms does Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g) resolve? Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment is clinically indicated for the treatment of acute bacterial conjunctivitis. This condition is characterised by inflammation of the conjunctiva and is easily identified by the presence of a sticky yellow or green purulent discharge which often causes the eyelashes to stick together particularly upon waking in the morning. Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment effectively clears this infection thereby resolving the associated redness, grittiness and irritation.
Who Is It For
Who is Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g) suitable for? Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment is suitable for adults and children aged 2 years and over. Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment is specifically designed for individuals suffering from diagnosed acute bacterial conjunctivitis who require an antibiotic treatment. It is an ideal option for patients who struggle with the frequent application required by eye drops or for those who wish to supplement their daytime drop regime with an overnight treatment. Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment is not suitable for children under 2 years of age without a doctor’s prescription.
Usage Instructions
How to apply Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g) correctly? To apply Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment the user should gently pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket. The user should then squeeze a thin line of ointment approximately 1 centimetre in length into the space between the lower lid and the eye.
Dosage: If using Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment alone it should be applied 3 to 4 times a day. If used in conjunction with eye drops it should be applied once at night before sleep.
Hygiene: It is crucial that the nozzle of the tube does not touch the eye, the eyelid or the surrounding skin as this can contaminate the sterile ointment remaining in the tube.
How long should Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g) be used for? A standard course of treatment with Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment lasts for 5 days. Users should continue to apply Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment for 48 hours after the eye appears to have healed to ensure the infection is completely eradicated and to prevent recurrence. If there is no improvement after 48 hours of treatment the user should consult a doctor.
Warnings
When must Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g) not be used? Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment must not be used by patients who have a known history of blood disorders specifically aplastic anaemia or by those with a family history of blood dyscrasias. Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment is not suitable for individuals who have previously experienced an allergic reaction to chloramphenicol. Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment must not be used while wearing contact lenses. Contact lenses should not be worn until the infection has completely cleared and the course of treatment is finished.
Safety advice regarding pregnancy and Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g)? Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment should generally be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless explicitly prescribed by a doctor. Although systemic absorption from the eye is low chloramphenicol can cross the placenta and enter breast milk. Safety concerns include the theoretical risk of “grey baby syndrome” which is a toxic reaction to chloramphenicol in infants.
Alternatives
Common alternatives to Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment (4g)? If Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment is not suitable due to the texture or the active ingredient common alternatives include:
Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Eye Drops: Contains the same active ingredient, chloramphenicol, but in a liquid drop format that does not blur vision as much as the ointment and is preferred for daytime use.
Golden Eye Eye Ointment: Contains propamidine isethionate which is a different antimicrobial agent suitable for treating minor eye infections like blepharitis and conjunctivitis.
Brolene Eye Drops: A liquid formulation containing propamidine which acts as a disinfectant to treat minor infections without using an antibiotic like chloramphenicol.
Moorfields Pharmaceuticals Chloramphenicol Ointment: A generic version of the antibiotic ointment which provides the same therapeutic effect as Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment.
