Conjunctivitis
Antimicrobial prescribing: NHS Forth Valley
Most infections are self-limiting: reserve antibiotic for cases which are more severe
Drug details
First line: Reassurance should settle within couple weeks. Bath/clean both eyelids with cotton wool dipped in sterile saline or cooled boiled water to remove crusting. Cool compresses. Lubricating agents/artificial tears. Avoid antibiotic prescription.
Severe:
Chloramphenicol 0.5% eye drops
Apply 1 drop 2 hourly for 2 days, then reduce frequency depending on the severity of infection (3-4 times daily is usually sufficient for less severe infection).
Continue until 48 hours after infection has cleared.
Alternatives:
Chloramphenicol 1% ointment
or
Fusidic acid 1% eye drops
Apply 3-4 times daily
1 drop twice daily
Continue until 48 hours after infection has cleared.