Optachlor 1% 5GM

Description

Optachlor Eye Ointment 5g contains chloramphenicol, a broad-spectrum antibiotic used in Pakistan to treat bacterial conjunctivitis and other superficial eye infections. It kills bacteria to clear infections, common in dusty environments like rural Punjab or urban Karachi where eye irritations are frequent. Produced by brands like Remington Pharma, it’s available in 5g tubes, priced around Rs. 50-70, prescription-only, and distributed through DRAP-registered pharmacies.

How It Functions

Chloramphenicol inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing peptide bond formation and stopping bacterial growth. Chemically, it’s 2,2-dichloro-N-[(1R,2R)-1,3-dihydroxy-1-(4-nitrophenyl)propan-2-yl]acetamide. Effective against gram-positive (e.g., Staphylococcus) and gram-negative (e.g., Haemophilus) bacteria, it penetrates eye tissues well, with effects starting within hours and lasting 6-8 hours per application.

Dosage Information

Adults and children (over 2 years): Apply a small amount (1-2cm ribbon) of ointment to the lower conjunctival sac of the affected eye every 3-4 hours or at bedtime for 5-7 days. Use clean hands or applicator, avoiding tube tip contact with eye. Complete full course even if symptoms improve. Not for infants under 2 without specialist advice. Consult physician if no improvement in 48 hours or for prolonged use.

Side Effects

• Very Common (>1 in 10): Temporary stinging or burning
• Common (up to 1 in 10): Itching, rash, redness
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions (wheeziness, swelling of face/lips/tongue, blisters), sore throat, fever, bruising, severe tiredness (due to bone marrow suppression)

Drug Interactions

Chloramphenicol ointment has minimal systemic absorption, but interactions include:

• Methotrexate (cancer drug): Rare risk of increased toxicity.
• Azathioprine (immunosuppressant): May enhance bone marrow suppression.
• Other topical eye antibiotics: Avoid concurrent use to prevent dilution.

Indications

Approved for treating bacterial conjunctivitis and superficial eye infections in adults and children.

When Not to Use

Avoid in:

• Hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol or excipients (e.g., phenylmercuric nitrate).
• History of blood disorders or bone marrow disease (e.g., anemia) from chloramphenicol.
• Family history of chloramphenicol-related bone marrow issues.

Precautions

• Contains phenylmercuric nitrate; may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Remove contact lenses during treatment; wait 24 hours post-treatment to reinsert.
• Stop if new infection or worsening symptoms occur; consult physician.
• Use cautiously if scalp/face rash or severe eye pain present; report visual disturbances.
• Buy from DRAP-registered pharmacies; check holograms to avoid counterfeits.

Warnings

• Bone marrow suppression: Rare but serious; stop if bruising, tiredness, or infection signs occur.
• Allergic reactions: Discontinue if swelling, breathing difficulty, or severe rash develops; seek urgent care.
• Overuse: May lead to resistant bacteria or fungal superinfection; limit to prescribed duration.
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Use only if essential; consult physician.

Additional Notes

• Pregnancy Category: Consult physician; category C, use if benefits outweigh risks.
• Breastfeeding: Minimal systemic absorption; consult physician, monitor infant.
• Availability: Common in urban and rural pharmacies; generics like Chloromycetin available.
• Stability: Stable at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening or if discolored.
• Reporting: Log batch for side effects; report to DRAP for quality control.

Doctor Review

Dr. Ayesha Khan, an ophthalmologist in Lahore, notes Optachlor’s efficacy for bacterial conjunctivitis in Pakistan’s dusty environments. DRAP data supports its broad-spectrum action, but Dr. Khan advises against overuse and monitoring for rare blood-related side effects, especially in children.

Disclaimer

This is general product information, not a prescription or medical advice. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for personal guidance.