This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Side effects of chloramphenicol
There are things you can do to help cope with these side effects of chloramphenicol.
Stinging or burning in the eye, or blurred vision
This can happen straight after using the eye drops or ointment and only lasts for a short time.
Do not rub your eye as this can make things worse.
Wet a clean flannel with cool water and hold it over your eye for a few minutes to ease the symptoms. Make sure you do not share the flannel with others, and wash it after you've used it.
Always wash your hands after touching your eyes to stop the infection spreading.
Do not drive, cycle or use machinery or tools until your eyes feel comfortable again and your vision is clear.
Change in eye colour or the eye surface becoming cloudy
This can happen because of the preservative in some eye drops.
Mild stinging, irritation, burning or itching in the ear
If the skin around your ear becomes red and irritated, tell your doctor. This is a sign of dermatitis and your doctor may recommend some different antibiotic ear drops for you.
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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