Chloramphenicol 0.5% and 1% - how safe

[sallyann27]

Hello there, I was hoping for some information on eye drops Chloramphenicol and how safe it is to use?  I have been diagnosed with bacterial infection of the eyes (pink eye) but have left it untreated for a few weeks as I have a phobia of medicines.

My question is am I damaging myself not taking the medicine?
And how safe is the medicine because I have read the leaflet and the odds of developing something that starts ....aplastic.....develops 1 in 40000 and as I have chilblains and poor circulation I am worried that I would be at higher risk.

I hope you can advise me in some way as it is causing me great anxiety.
Kind regards, SA.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Chloramphenicol is used extensively overseas but not in the US.  I personally would not use it in my eyes due to the very, very, low risk of aplastic anemia.  However it is widely used in many countries and has approval by governental safety boards in those countries it is used in.  You do have a legitimate concern.  Please call your doctor and explain your concern and ask to be changed to another antibiotic in order to calm your anxiety.

MJK MD

[sallyann27]

Thanks very much, went and got an eye ointment called Brolene instead.  Feel more relaxed now and I really appreciate you taking the time to post back, SA.