The Story
What Is Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
If your eyes are red, sticky, and producing a yellow or green discharge, you may have bacterial conjunctivitis — one of the most common eye infections seen in the UK. The good news is that it is treatable without a GP visit. Bacterial conjunctivitis ointment containing chloramphenicol is available over the counter, and Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment 4g is a trusted option you can order directly from our eye care range at Cured Pharmacy.
Each 4g tube contains chloramphenicol at a concentration of 1% w/w. Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that has been used in ophthalmology for decades. It is licensed in the UK for OTC sale for adults and children aged 2 years and over, making it one of the few antibiotic treatments you can access without a prescription.
How Does Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment Work?
Chloramphenicol targets bacteria directly at the site of infection. Here is how it works step by step:
- It penetrates the bacterial cell and binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit.
- This blocks the enzyme peptidyl transferase, preventing the bacteria from building the proteins they need to survive and multiply.
- Without the ability to reproduce, the bacterial population declines rapidly.
- Your immune system then clears the remaining bacteria, resolving the infection.
The ointment formulation has a practical advantage over eye drops. Because it is thicker, it stays in contact with the surface of the eye for longer, which means fewer applications are needed throughout the day. It is particularly useful at bedtime, when drops would drain away quickly.
Who Should Use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
This ointment is intended for people who have been diagnosed with, or strongly suspect they have, bacterial conjunctivitis. It is not suitable for viral or allergic conjunctivitis, which require different treatments. So how do you know if your conjunctivitis is bacterial? The key signs include:
- Sticky yellow or green discharge from one or both eyes
- Eyelids that are crusted or glued together in the morning
- Redness and mild irritation without significant itching
- No recent cold, hay fever, or known allergen exposure
It is suitable for adults and children aged 2 years and over. It is not recommended for use in newborns or infants under 2 years without medical supervision.
How Does Optrex Ointment Compare to Chloramphenicol Eye Drops?
| Feature | Optrex Ointment 1% w/w | Chloramphenicol 0.5% Eye Drops |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Chloramphenicol 1% w/w | Chloramphenicol 0.5% w/v |
| Application frequency | 3–4 times daily | Every 2 hours initially, reducing to 4 times daily |
| Best suited for | Overnight use; those who prefer ointment | Daytime use; those who prefer drops |
| Temporary blurred vision | Yes, briefly after application | Minimal |
Is Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment Safe to Store at Room Temperature?
Yes. Store the ointment below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Unlike some eye preparations, this bacterial conjunctivitis ointment does not require refrigeration, making it straightforward to keep at home or when travelling. Once opened, discard the tube after 28 days to reduce the risk of contamination — even if product remains inside.
Do not share the tube with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms. Cross-contamination can spread infection. If you are also using other creams and ointments for other conditions, keep them clearly labelled and separate from your eye preparations.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment 4g specifications
| Treatment category | Eye infection / Bacterial conjunctivitis |
| Active ingredient | Chloramphenicol 1% w/w |
| Mechanism of action | Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis via 50S ribosomal subunit binding |
| Effective against | Common bacteria causing conjunctivitis (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae) |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 2 years and over |
| Pack size | 4g tube |
| Strength | 1% w/w |
| UK classification | Pharmacy (P) medicine |
| Drug class | Broad-spectrum antibiotic (amphenicol) |
| Preparation | Ophthalmic ointment |
| Route of administration | Topical ophthalmic (applied to the eye) |
Specifications of Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment 4g
What Is Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment and What Is It Used For?
Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment is an antibiotic eye ointment used to treat acute bacterial conjunctivitis — an infection of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. The active ingredient, chloramphenicol, kills the bacteria responsible for the infection. It is licensed for OTC use in the UK for adults and children aged 2 years and over. Bacterial conjunctivitis is highly contagious, so prompt treatment helps reduce the risk of spreading it to others.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Do not use this ointment if any of the following apply to you:
- You have a personal or family history of blood disorders, particularly aplastic anaemia
- You are allergic to chloramphenicol or any other ingredient in the ointment
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (seek medical advice first)
- The affected person is under 2 years of age
- You wear contact lenses (remove them before application and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting)
- You have a penetrating eye injury or foreign body in the eye
There are no significant drug interactions known for topical chloramphenicol at ophthalmic doses. However, if you are using any other eye drops or ointments, allow at least 5 minutes between applications. If you are taking systemic medicines that affect bone marrow, speak to your pharmacist before use.
- No clinically significant interactions with oral medicines at topical doses
- Allow 5 minutes between different eye preparations
- Inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking
How Should You Use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying the ointment correctly:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes.
- Tilt your head back slightly and look upward.
- Gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket.
- Squeeze a small strip of ointment (approximately 1 cm) into the pocket — avoid touching the tip of the tube to your eye or eyelid.
- Close your eye gently and blink a few times to spread the ointment evenly.
- Wipe away any excess ointment with a clean tissue.
- Replace the cap on the tube immediately after use.
- Wash your hands again after application.
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacterial conjunctivitis | Adults and children aged 2+ | Approx. 1 cm strip per eye | 3–4 times daily, including at bedtime |
| Bacterial conjunctivitis | Under 2 years | Not recommended OTC | Seek medical advice |
Do not use for more than 5 days without seeking medical advice. If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 48 hours, consult your GP or pharmacist. You can browse our full eye care collection for additional products to support eye health.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Like all medicines, this ointment can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the eye.
Common side effects:
- Temporary blurred vision immediately after application (usually clears within a few minutes)
- Mild stinging or burning sensation in the eye
- Slight watering of the eye after application
Less common side effects:
- Localised allergic reaction — increased redness, swelling, or itching of the eyelid
- Conjunctival irritation
- In very rare cases, systemic absorption may occur — this is extremely unlikely with topical use but is the reason people with a history of blood disorders should avoid this product
Stop using the ointment and seek medical advice immediately if you develop a severe allergic reaction, significant eye pain, or any change in vision beyond the expected temporary blurring after application.
How Should You Store Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Correct storage keeps the ointment safe and effective for the duration of your treatment. If you are looking for other first aid or infection-related products, our first aid collection has a range of useful items to keep at home.
- Store below 25°C in a dry place — do not refrigerate
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
- Discard the tube 28 days after first opening, even if product remains
- Keep out of the reach and sight of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/treatment/
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/chloramphenicol/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/causes/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/chloramphenicol/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment online in the UK?
You can buy Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment 4g directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £7.49. It is available without a prescription for adults and children aged 2 years and over. Browse our full eye care collection for more eye health products.
How does chloramphenicol in the ointment treat bacterial conjunctivitis?
Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that works by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit inside bacterial cells, blocking protein synthesis and preventing the bacteria from reproducing. Without the ability to multiply, the bacterial population dies off and your immune system clears the remaining infection. The ointment formulation keeps the antibiotic in contact with the eye surface for longer than drops, which can improve effectiveness.
How do I apply Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment step by step?
Wash your hands before and after application. Tilt your head back, gently pull down your lower eyelid, and squeeze approximately 1 cm of ointment into the pocket formed between the eyelid and the eye. Close your eye gently and blink to spread the ointment, then wipe away any excess with a clean tissue.
How many times a day should I use the ointment?
Apply the ointment three to four times daily, including once at bedtime, for up to 5 days. Spacing applications evenly throughout the day helps maintain a consistent level of antibiotic at the eye surface. Do not use for more than 5 days without seeking medical advice from your GP or pharmacist.
What are the side effects of Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
The most common side effect is temporary blurred vision immediately after applying the ointment, which usually resolves within a few minutes. Some people experience mild stinging, burning, or watering of the eye. Less commonly, localised allergic reactions such as increased redness or eyelid swelling may occur — if this happens, stop use and consult a pharmacist or GP.
How do I manage blurred vision after applying the ointment?
Blurred vision after applying the ointment is normal and temporary — it usually clears within a few minutes as the ointment spreads across the eye. Avoid driving or operating machinery immediately after application until your vision has fully cleared. Applying the ointment at bedtime is a practical way to minimise disruption to your daily activities.
Can children use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Yes, the ointment is suitable for children aged 2 years and over when used as directed. It should not be used in babies or children under 2 years of age without medical supervision, as safety in this age group has not been established for OTC use. Always consult a pharmacist or GP if you are unsure whether this product is appropriate for your child.
Who is not eligible to use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
You should not use this ointment if you have a personal or family history of blood disorders (particularly aplastic anaemia), if you are allergic to chloramphenicol, or if the affected person is under 2 years old. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before use. People with a penetrating eye injury or foreign body in the eye should seek urgent medical attention rather than self-treating.
What happens if I miss a dose of Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
If you miss an application, apply it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. Completing the full course, even if symptoms improve early, helps ensure the infection is fully cleared.
How long does it take for Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment to work?
Most people notice a reduction in discharge, redness, and discomfort within 48 hours of starting treatment. The full recommended course is up to 5 days, and it is important to complete this even if your eye looks and feels better sooner. If there is no improvement after 5 days, stop using the ointment and consult your GP, as the infection may not be bacterial or may require a different treatment.
What are the alternatives to Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
The main OTC alternative is chloramphenicol 0.5% eye drops, which contain the same active ingredient but in a liquid formulation applied more frequently during the day. Some patients prefer drops for daytime use and ointment at night for prolonged overnight contact. Your pharmacist can advise on which option suits your lifestyle and the severity of your symptoms.
Can I use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment with contact lenses?
You should remove contact lenses before applying the ointment and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. It is generally advisable to avoid wearing contact lenses altogether while you have an active eye infection, as lenses can harbour bacteria and prolong the infection. Switch to glasses until your symptoms have fully resolved.
How long can I use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment for?
This ointment is intended for short-term use only — a maximum of 5 days per course of treatment. Using it for longer than recommended without medical supervision increases the risk of antibiotic resistance and may mask a more serious underlying condition. If your symptoms persist beyond 5 days, seek advice from your GP or pharmacist.
Is there any latest research on chloramphenicol eye ointment for conjunctivitis?
Chloramphenicol remains one of the most widely studied and clinically validated topical antibiotics for bacterial conjunctivitis, with decades of evidence supporting its safety and efficacy for short-term OTC use. Some research has explored whether bacterial conjunctivitis resolves without antibiotics in many cases, but guidelines still support antibiotic treatment to speed recovery and reduce contagion. The NHS continues to recommend chloramphenicol as a first-line OTC option for bacterial conjunctivitis in eligible patients.
How should I store Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment correctly?
Store the ointment below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight — it does not need to be refrigerated. Once opened, discard the tube after 28 days even if product remains, to prevent contamination and infection risk. Keep the tube out of the reach of children and do not use it after the expiry date printed on the packaging. You can find other useful infection and wound care products in our first aid collection.
Description
What Is Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
If your eyes are red, sticky, and producing a yellow or green discharge, you may have bacterial conjunctivitis — one of the most common eye infections seen in the UK. The good news is that it is treatable without a GP visit. Bacterial conjunctivitis ointment containing chloramphenicol is available over the counter, and Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment 4g is a trusted option you can order directly from our eye care range at Cured Pharmacy.
Each 4g tube contains chloramphenicol at a concentration of 1% w/w. Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that has been used in ophthalmology for decades. It is licensed in the UK for OTC sale for adults and children aged 2 years and over, making it one of the few antibiotic treatments you can access without a prescription.
How Does Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment Work?
Chloramphenicol targets bacteria directly at the site of infection. Here is how it works step by step:
- It penetrates the bacterial cell and binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit.
- This blocks the enzyme peptidyl transferase, preventing the bacteria from building the proteins they need to survive and multiply.
- Without the ability to reproduce, the bacterial population declines rapidly.
- Your immune system then clears the remaining bacteria, resolving the infection.
The ointment formulation has a practical advantage over eye drops. Because it is thicker, it stays in contact with the surface of the eye for longer, which means fewer applications are needed throughout the day. It is particularly useful at bedtime, when drops would drain away quickly.
Who Should Use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
This ointment is intended for people who have been diagnosed with, or strongly suspect they have, bacterial conjunctivitis. It is not suitable for viral or allergic conjunctivitis, which require different treatments. So how do you know if your conjunctivitis is bacterial? The key signs include:
- Sticky yellow or green discharge from one or both eyes
- Eyelids that are crusted or glued together in the morning
- Redness and mild irritation without significant itching
- No recent cold, hay fever, or known allergen exposure
It is suitable for adults and children aged 2 years and over. It is not recommended for use in newborns or infants under 2 years without medical supervision.
How Does Optrex Ointment Compare to Chloramphenicol Eye Drops?
| Feature | Optrex Ointment 1% w/w | Chloramphenicol 0.5% Eye Drops |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Chloramphenicol 1% w/w | Chloramphenicol 0.5% w/v |
| Application frequency | 3–4 times daily | Every 2 hours initially, reducing to 4 times daily |
| Best suited for | Overnight use; those who prefer ointment | Daytime use; those who prefer drops |
| Temporary blurred vision | Yes, briefly after application | Minimal |
Is Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment Safe to Store at Room Temperature?
Yes. Store the ointment below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Unlike some eye preparations, this bacterial conjunctivitis ointment does not require refrigeration, making it straightforward to keep at home or when travelling. Once opened, discard the tube after 28 days to reduce the risk of contamination — even if product remains inside.
Do not share the tube with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms. Cross-contamination can spread infection. If you are also using other creams and ointments for other conditions, keep them clearly labelled and separate from your eye preparations.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment 4g specifications
| Treatment category | Eye infection / Bacterial conjunctivitis |
| Active ingredient | Chloramphenicol 1% w/w |
| Mechanism of action | Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis via 50S ribosomal subunit binding |
| Effective against | Common bacteria causing conjunctivitis (e.g. Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae) |
| Suitable for | Adults and children aged 2 years and over |
| Pack size | 4g tube |
| Strength | 1% w/w |
| UK classification | Pharmacy (P) medicine |
| Drug class | Broad-spectrum antibiotic (amphenicol) |
| Preparation | Ophthalmic ointment |
| Route of administration | Topical ophthalmic (applied to the eye) |
Specifications of Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment 4g
What Is Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment and What Is It Used For?
Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment is an antibiotic eye ointment used to treat acute bacterial conjunctivitis — an infection of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. The active ingredient, chloramphenicol, kills the bacteria responsible for the infection. It is licensed for OTC use in the UK for adults and children aged 2 years and over. Bacterial conjunctivitis is highly contagious, so prompt treatment helps reduce the risk of spreading it to others.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Do not use this ointment if any of the following apply to you:
- You have a personal or family history of blood disorders, particularly aplastic anaemia
- You are allergic to chloramphenicol or any other ingredient in the ointment
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (seek medical advice first)
- The affected person is under 2 years of age
- You wear contact lenses (remove them before application and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting)
- You have a penetrating eye injury or foreign body in the eye
There are no significant drug interactions known for topical chloramphenicol at ophthalmic doses. However, if you are using any other eye drops or ointments, allow at least 5 minutes between applications. If you are taking systemic medicines that affect bone marrow, speak to your pharmacist before use.
- No clinically significant interactions with oral medicines at topical doses
- Allow 5 minutes between different eye preparations
- Inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently taking
How Should You Use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying the ointment correctly:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes.
- Tilt your head back slightly and look upward.
- Gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket.
- Squeeze a small strip of ointment (approximately 1 cm) into the pocket — avoid touching the tip of the tube to your eye or eyelid.
- Close your eye gently and blink a few times to spread the ointment evenly.
- Wipe away any excess ointment with a clean tissue.
- Replace the cap on the tube immediately after use.
- Wash your hands again after application.
| Indication | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacterial conjunctivitis | Adults and children aged 2+ | Approx. 1 cm strip per eye | 3–4 times daily, including at bedtime |
| Bacterial conjunctivitis | Under 2 years | Not recommended OTC | Seek medical advice |
Do not use for more than 5 days without seeking medical advice. If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 48 hours, consult your GP or pharmacist. You can browse our full eye care collection for additional products to support eye health.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Like all medicines, this ointment can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the eye.
Common side effects:
- Temporary blurred vision immediately after application (usually clears within a few minutes)
- Mild stinging or burning sensation in the eye
- Slight watering of the eye after application
Less common side effects:
- Localised allergic reaction — increased redness, swelling, or itching of the eyelid
- Conjunctival irritation
- In very rare cases, systemic absorption may occur — this is extremely unlikely with topical use but is the reason people with a history of blood disorders should avoid this product
Stop using the ointment and seek medical advice immediately if you develop a severe allergic reaction, significant eye pain, or any change in vision beyond the expected temporary blurring after application.
How Should You Store Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Correct storage keeps the ointment safe and effective for the duration of your treatment. If you are looking for other first aid or infection-related products, our first aid collection has a range of useful items to keep at home.
- Store below 25°C in a dry place — do not refrigerate
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
- Discard the tube 28 days after first opening, even if product remains
- Keep out of the reach and sight of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/treatment/
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/chloramphenicol/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis/causes/
- https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/chloramphenicol/
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment online in the UK?
You can buy Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis 1% w/w Ointment 4g directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £7.49. It is available without a prescription for adults and children aged 2 years and over. Browse our full eye care collection for more eye health products.
How does chloramphenicol in the ointment treat bacterial conjunctivitis?
Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that works by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit inside bacterial cells, blocking protein synthesis and preventing the bacteria from reproducing. Without the ability to multiply, the bacterial population dies off and your immune system clears the remaining infection. The ointment formulation keeps the antibiotic in contact with the eye surface for longer than drops, which can improve effectiveness.
How do I apply Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment step by step?
Wash your hands before and after application. Tilt your head back, gently pull down your lower eyelid, and squeeze approximately 1 cm of ointment into the pocket formed between the eyelid and the eye. Close your eye gently and blink to spread the ointment, then wipe away any excess with a clean tissue.
How many times a day should I use the ointment?
Apply the ointment three to four times daily, including once at bedtime, for up to 5 days. Spacing applications evenly throughout the day helps maintain a consistent level of antibiotic at the eye surface. Do not use for more than 5 days without seeking medical advice from your GP or pharmacist.
What are the side effects of Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
The most common side effect is temporary blurred vision immediately after applying the ointment, which usually resolves within a few minutes. Some people experience mild stinging, burning, or watering of the eye. Less commonly, localised allergic reactions such as increased redness or eyelid swelling may occur — if this happens, stop use and consult a pharmacist or GP.
How do I manage blurred vision after applying the ointment?
Blurred vision after applying the ointment is normal and temporary — it usually clears within a few minutes as the ointment spreads across the eye. Avoid driving or operating machinery immediately after application until your vision has fully cleared. Applying the ointment at bedtime is a practical way to minimise disruption to your daily activities.
Can children use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
Yes, the ointment is suitable for children aged 2 years and over when used as directed. It should not be used in babies or children under 2 years of age without medical supervision, as safety in this age group has not been established for OTC use. Always consult a pharmacist or GP if you are unsure whether this product is appropriate for your child.
Who is not eligible to use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
You should not use this ointment if you have a personal or family history of blood disorders (particularly aplastic anaemia), if you are allergic to chloramphenicol, or if the affected person is under 2 years old. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before use. People with a penetrating eye injury or foreign body in the eye should seek urgent medical attention rather than self-treating.
What happens if I miss a dose of Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
If you miss an application, apply it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. Completing the full course, even if symptoms improve early, helps ensure the infection is fully cleared.
How long does it take for Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment to work?
Most people notice a reduction in discharge, redness, and discomfort within 48 hours of starting treatment. The full recommended course is up to 5 days, and it is important to complete this even if your eye looks and feels better sooner. If there is no improvement after 5 days, stop using the ointment and consult your GP, as the infection may not be bacterial or may require a different treatment.
What are the alternatives to Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment?
The main OTC alternative is chloramphenicol 0.5% eye drops, which contain the same active ingredient but in a liquid formulation applied more frequently during the day. Some patients prefer drops for daytime use and ointment at night for prolonged overnight contact. Your pharmacist can advise on which option suits your lifestyle and the severity of your symptoms.
Can I use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment with contact lenses?
You should remove contact lenses before applying the ointment and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. It is generally advisable to avoid wearing contact lenses altogether while you have an active eye infection, as lenses can harbour bacteria and prolong the infection. Switch to glasses until your symptoms have fully resolved.
How long can I use Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment for?
This ointment is intended for short-term use only — a maximum of 5 days per course of treatment. Using it for longer than recommended without medical supervision increases the risk of antibiotic resistance and may mask a more serious underlying condition. If your symptoms persist beyond 5 days, seek advice from your GP or pharmacist.
Is there any latest research on chloramphenicol eye ointment for conjunctivitis?
Chloramphenicol remains one of the most widely studied and clinically validated topical antibiotics for bacterial conjunctivitis, with decades of evidence supporting its safety and efficacy for short-term OTC use. Some research has explored whether bacterial conjunctivitis resolves without antibiotics in many cases, but guidelines still support antibiotic treatment to speed recovery and reduce contagion. The NHS continues to recommend chloramphenicol as a first-line OTC option for bacterial conjunctivitis in eligible patients.
How should I store Optrex Bacterial Conjunctivitis Ointment correctly?
Store the ointment below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight — it does not need to be refrigerated. Once opened, discard the tube after 28 days even if product remains, to prevent contamination and infection risk. Keep the tube out of the reach of children and do not use it after the expiry date printed on the packaging. You can find other useful infection and wound care products in our first aid collection.
