Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) is used to treat serious surface eye infections.

Do not take Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) you have herpes, vaccinia, chickenpox or fungal infections if you are using steroid eye drops after eye surgery

Before using Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical condition

Incomplete development of bone marrow, anemia and death have been reported following the use of Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol). It should only be used when less dangerous medicines have not been effective or are not recommended. Chloramphenicol slows the growth of susceptible bacteria by interfering with the production of proteins needed by the bacteria to grow. Slowing the bacteria's growth allows the body's defense mechanisms (eg, white blood cells)to destroy them.

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Follow patient instructions provided with Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) exactly. Hold tube in hands for a few minutes to warm the ointment. Tilt head back and look upward. Gently pull lower lid out to form a pouch. Instill ointment. Close eyes and "roll the eyeballs" in all directions for 1to 2 minutes. Repeat every 3 to 6 hours. Avoid contact between dispensing container and the eye or any other surface. Wait at least 5 minutes before using other eye medications. Do not wear contact lenses unless advised by a doctor. Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) may slow the healing of injury to the cornea. Continue use until all of the prescribed medicine has been taken. Failure to take all of Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) may prevent complete elimination of the bacteria, allowing the infection to return. Contact your doctor immediately if any of the following occur: Fever, sore throat, tiredness, or unusual bleeding or bruising. Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) may cause temporary blurring of vision or stinging following use. Lab tests may be required. Keep appointments. Do not stop taking Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) without checking with your doctor. Do not take more medication than prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor or health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol). Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. If a dose is missed, instill it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Store Chloromycetin (chloramphenicol) below 86 degrees F. Protect from light.