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Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic

Prescription
Ophthalmic Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic
Last reviewed 22 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Binds 50S ribosomal subunit inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Excellent broad-spectrum penetration into all ocular tissues including cornea, aqueous humor, and vitreous. One of few antibiotics with good intraocular penetration topically.

At a glance

Class
Ophthalmic Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Excellent for bacterial conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, and intraocular infectio
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q4–8h
🐈

Cat

Very effective for feline bacterial conjunctivitis
Dose
Route
Ophthalmic
Frequency
q4–8h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature; discard 28 days after opening

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Clinical response at 5–7 daysCulture if refractory

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Chloroptic
Chlorsig

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic?
Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic is a ophthalmic broad-spectrum antibiotic used in pets. Binds 50S ribosomal subunit inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Excellent broad-spectrum penetration into all ocular tissues including cornea, aqueous humor, and vitreous. One of few antibiotics with good intraocular penetration topically.
What is Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic used for in pets?
Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic is used in veterinary medicine for: Excellent for bacterial conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, and intraocular infectio; Very effective for feline bacterial conjunctivitis.
What is the Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic dose for dogs?
For dogs, Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Excellent for bacterial conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, and intraocular infectio: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q4–8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic dose for cats?
For cats, Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic is typically dosed as follows — Very effective for feline bacterial conjunctivitis: undefined undefined Ophthalmic q4–8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic need a prescription?
Yes. Chloramphenicol Ophthalmic is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →