Accidental ingestion of the drops is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity due to the low content of the antibiotic in the product. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation or photophobia occur after undesired eye contact, the exposed eye(s) should be irrigated for at least 15 minutes. If symptoms persist after this, an ophthalmological examination should be considered.
None known
Eye disorders:
Transient irritation, burning, stinging and sensitivity reactions such as itching and dermatitis.
Immune System Disorders:
Hypersensitivity reactions including angioedema, anaphylaxis, urticaria, fever, vesicular and maculopapular dermatitis.
Blood and lymphatic system disorders:
Bone marrow depression and rarely aplastic anaemia has been reported following topical use of Chloromycetin Zoetis. Whilst the hazard is a rare one, it should be borne in mind when assessing the benefits expected from the use of this compound.
Reporting of suspected adverse reactions:
Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via Yellow card scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard.
No additional data of relevance to the prescriber.
Pharmacotherapeutic group: Antibiotics
ATC code: S01AA01
Chloromycetin Zoetis is a broad spectrum antibiotic with bacteriostatic activity and is effective against a wide range of gram-negative and gram-positive organisms including Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus viridans, Moraxella species and Enterobacteriaceae, the main pathogens responsible for acute bacterial conjunctivitis. Chloromycetin Zoetis exerts its antibacterial effect by reversibly binding to bacterial ribosomes thereby inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis.
Evidence suggests that Chloromycetin Zoetis is absorbed systemically via topical ocular administration. Any Chloromycetin Zoetis that is absorbed will be widely distributed in the body tissues and fluids. It is found in cerebrospinal fluid, is secreted in saliva, with the highest concentrations occurring in the kidneys and liver.
Chloromycetin Zoetis also diffuses across the placenta into the foetal circulation and into breast milk.
Chloromycetin Zoetis is excreted chiefly in the urine as the glucuronide with small amounts being excreted via the bile and faeces. It has a reported half life of 1.5 to 5 hours which is increased in patients with liver impairment and neonates to between 24 and 28 hours in the latter.
The use of the eye drops may cause transient blurring of vision. Patients should not drive or operate hazardous machinery unless vision is clear.
No special requirements.
