anchlor-dx eye ointment - Chloramphenicol (10mg) + Dexamethasone (1mg) medicine

Anchlor-DX Eye Ointment: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Nri Vision Care India Limited 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 23, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for approved indications.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 23, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Sudden vision loss or severe eye pain
  • Increasing redness, swelling, or discharge despite treatment
  • Development of a white spot on the cornea
  • Severe headache with nausea and vomiting
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Eye injury or foreign body in the eye

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is anchlor-dx eye ointment used for?

This medicine is a combination eye ointment containing chloramphenicol (an antibiotic) and dexamethasone (a steroid). It is used to treat bacterial eye infections that also cause inflammation, such as bacterial conjunctivitis. It is applied directly to the eye, usually 1-4 times daily, as prescribed by an eye doctor.

  • Generic Name: Chloramphenicol + Dexamethasone
  • Manufacturer: Nri Vision Care India Limited
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 anchlor-dx eye ointment के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक आंखों की मरहम है जिसमें क्लोरैम्फेनिकॉल (एंटीबायोटिक) और डेक्सामेथासोन (स्टेरॉयड) होते हैं। यह बैक्टीरियल आंखों के संक्रमण और सूजन के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है, जैसे कि बैक्टीरियल कंजंक्टिवाइटिस। यह आंखों में लगाने वाली दवा है और इसे डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लगाना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में धुंधली दृष्टि, हल्की जलन या खुजली शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में आंखों का दबाव बढ़ना, दूसरा संक्रमण होना, या एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया हो सकती है। अगर आंखों में तेज दर्द, सूजन या दृष्टि में बदलाव हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लगाने से पहले और बाद में हाथ धोएं। ट्यूब की नोक को आंख या किसी सतह से न छुएं। डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही मात्रा और समय का पालन करें। दवा लगाने के तुरंत बाद वाहन न चलाएं क्योंकि दृष्टि धुंधली हो सकती है। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के 7 दिन से ज्यादा इस्तेमाल न करें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 anchlor-dx eye ointment Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Bacterial conjunctivitis with inflammation","description":"This medicine treats bacterial infection of the conjunctiva while reducing the associated redness, swelling, and discomfort.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Blepharitis with bacterial component","description":"It helps control bacterial infection of the eyelids and reduces eyelid inflammation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bacterial keratitis with inflammatory response","description":"Used under specialist supervision to treat bacterial corneal infection and limit inflammatory damage.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Post-operative ocular inflammation with infection risk","description":"Sometimes prescribed after eye surgery to prevent infection and control inflammation.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Chronic blepharoconjunctivitis","description":"Occasionally used for long-standing eyelid and conjunctival inflammation when bacterial involvement is suspected.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Bacterial eye infections with inflammation

Also treats: Bacterial conjunctivitis, Blepharitis, Bacterial keratitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Chloramphenicol + Dexamethasone
Brand NameAnchlor-DX Eye Ointment
ManufacturerNri Vision Care India Limited
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassOPHTHAL
Action ClassAntibiotic + Corticosteroid
Route of AdministrationTopical (ophthalmic). Apply the ointment directly into the affected eye as prescribed
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use. Do not freeze.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture, or as printed on the packaging.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always wash your hands before and after applying this eye ointment to prevent contamination.
2
Apply the ointment into the lower eyelid pocket without letting the tube tip touch your eye.
3
Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed without a follow-up eye examination.
4
If you wear contact lenses, remove them before application and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting.
5
Report any eye pain, vision changes, or worsening redness to your eye doctor immediately.
6
Do not share this eye ointment with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Red eye with discharge
This medicine is commonly prescribed for bacterial conjunctivitis.
Likely Use
Eye pain and swelling
The steroid component helps reduce inflammation.
Likely Use
Blurred vision
Blurred vision may be a side effect, not a primary indication.
Not Primary
Watery eye without discharge
This may be due to viral or allergic causes, not bacterial.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionChloramphenicol and dexamethasone are absorbed through the cornea and conjunctiva after topical application. Systemic absorption is generally low but can occur, especially if the corneal epithelium is damaged.
DistributionAfter absorption, both drugs distribute into ocular tissues including the aqueous humor, cornea, and conjunctiva. Dexamethasone also enters the systemic circulation and is distributed to various tissues.
Protein BindingChloramphenicol is approximately 50-60% bound to plasma proteins. Dexamethasone is about 77% bound to plasma proteins, mainly albumin.
MetabolismChloramphenicol is metabolized in the liver primarily by glucuronidation to chloramphenicol glucuronide. Dexamethasone is metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4 to inactive metabolites.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of chloramphenicol is about 1.5 to 3.5 hours in adults with normal liver function. Dexamethasone has a biological half-life of 36 to 54 hours.
ExcretionChloramphenicol and its metabolites are excreted mainly in urine, with a small amount in bile and feces. Dexamethasone metabolites are excreted in urine.
BioavailabilitySystemic bioavailability after ocular application is low but not precisely established from the available information.
Onset of ActionSymptom relief may begin within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment, but full therapeutic effect can take several days.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information for ocular ointment.
Duration of ActionThe anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects last for several hours after application, typically requiring dosing every 3 to 6 hours as prescribed.

How It Works

This medicine works through two complementary mechanisms. Chloramphenicol enters bacterial cells and binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking the formation of peptide bonds and thereby stopping protein synthesis. This action is primarily bacteriostatic against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Dexamethasone, a potent corticosteroid, binds to glucocorticoid receptors inside cells and suppresses the production of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Together, these actions reduce bacterial load and calm the inflammatory response in the eye.

Mechanism Steps

1
Chloramphenicol enters bacteria: Chloramphenicol diffuses through the bacterial cell wall and membrane into the cytoplasm.
2
Binding to 50S ribosome: It binds reversibly to the 50S ribosomal subunit and prevents the peptidyl transferase reaction.
3
Protein synthesis blockade: Without peptide bond formation, bacteria cannot build essential proteins and their growth stops.
4
Dexamethasone enters cells: Dexamethasone crosses cell membranes and binds to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors.
5
Anti-inflammatory gene regulation: The steroid-receptor complex moves into the nucleus and alters gene transcription, reducing inflammatory proteins.
6
Reduced ocular inflammation: This leads to less swelling, redness, and pain in the eye.

💡 How to Take anchlor-dx eye ointment

Strength: Eye ointment containing chloramphenicol 10 mg and dexamethasone 1 mg per gram.

1Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2Shake the tube gently if recommended by the manufacturer.
3Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket.
4Squeeze a small amount (about 1 cm) of ointment into the pocket without touching the tip to your eye.
5Close your eye gently and roll your eyeball to spread the ointment.
6Wipe away any excess ointment from the skin around the eye with a clean tissue.
7Replace the cap tightly and wash your hands again.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is a small amount (about 1 cm) of ointment applied into the affected eye one to four times daily, depending on the severity of the infection and your eye doctor's instructions. For severe infections, your doctor may recommend more frequent application initially. The dose and duration must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the specific condition, response to treatment, and any underlying eye disease. Do not exceed the prescribed frequency or duration.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician or eye specialist for appropriate use in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more susceptible to the effects of corticosteroids, including increased intraocular pressure and cataract formation. Use with caution and monitor eye pressure regularly.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for renal impairment with ocular use. However, if systemic absorption is significant, caution is advised in severe renal impairment.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment with ocular use. Use with caution in patients with severe liver disease.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose is not established from the available information. Follow your eye doctor's prescription exactly.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of anchlor-dx eye ointment

✅ Common Side Effects

Temporary blurred vision (Common (5-10%))
Wait a few minutes for vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.
Mild stinging or burning (Common (5-10%))
This usually resolves quickly. If it persists, consult your eye doctor.
Eye irritation or foreign body sensation (Common (5-10%))
Avoid rubbing the eye. If irritation continues, contact your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Increased intraocular pressure (Uncommon (1-2%))
Regular eye pressure checks are needed during prolonged use. Report eye pain or vision changes immediately.
Secondary eye infection (Uncommon (1-2%))
Stop using the ointment and seek medical advice if you notice worsening redness, pain, or discharge.
Allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Corneal thinning or perforation
Report any eye pain or vision loss immediately.
Systemic effects of chloramphenicol (bone marrow suppression)
Seek medical attention if you develop unusual fatigue, bruising, or bleeding.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Other corticosteroids Major
Live vaccines Major
CYP3A4 inhibitors Moderate
CYP3A4 inducers Moderate
Other eye medications Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other corticosteroids (systemic or topical)
  • Live vaccines

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)
  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

No specific interaction is established between this eye ointment and alcohol. However, alcohol may worsen certain eye conditions and should be consumed in moderation.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol, dexamethasone, or any component of the ointment","Viral, fungal, or untreated bacterial eye infections","Herpes simplex keratitis (dendritic keratitis)","Acute purulent eye infections where steroids may mask or worsen the condition","Use in patients with a history of glaucoma, unless directed by an eye specialist"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Prolonged use may increase the risk of glaucoma, cataracts, and secondary infections.","Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without a follow-up eye examination.","Contact lenses should be removed before application and not reinserted for at least 15 minutes.","Avoid touching the tip of the tube to any surface to prevent contamination.","If symptoms do not improve within 2-3 days, consult your eye doctor.","Use with caution in patients with severe dry eye or corneal thinning.","Systemic absorption may occur, especially if the corneal epithelium is damaged."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether chloramphenicol or dexamethasone passes into breast milk in significant amounts after ocular application. Because systemic absorption is low, the risk to a nursing infant is likely minimal, but consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose from ocular application is unlikely. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of chloramphenicol overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and bone marrow suppression. Dexamethasone overdose may cause systemic steroid effects. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying this eye ointment. Do not touch the tip of the tube to your eye, eyelid, or any surface, as this can contaminate the product. Apply only the prescribed amount into the affected eye. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the ointment and wait at least 15 minutes after application before reinserting them, or as advised by your eye doctor. Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed without a follow-up eye examination. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery immediately after application because your vision may be temporarily blurry. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use and store it as directed. Never use this medicine if the tube is damaged or if the ointment has changed color or consistency.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of steroid-induced eye pressure increase and cataract formation. Regular monitoring of intraocular pressure is recommended during treatment.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. The safety of chloramphenicol and dexamethasone during pregnancy has not been fully established for ocular use.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be prescribed after eye surgery to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Use exactly as directed by your surgeon and attend all follow-up appointments.

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific precautions are required for dental procedures while using this eye ointment. However, inform your dentist about all medications you are taking.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes to prevent spreading infection.
🥗
Wash your hands frequently, especially before and after applying the ointment.
😴
Do not share towels, pillows, or eye makeup with others.
💧
Replace eye makeup and contact lenses after the infection clears.
🧘
Follow a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E to support eye health.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to help your body fight infection.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

No specific exercise restrictions are required while using this eye ointment. However, avoid swimming or water sports until the infection clears to prevent contamination and spread.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include foods rich in vitamin A such as carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes.
Eat foods high in vitamin C like oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause temporary blurred vision after application. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery immediately after use. You can continue most daily activities, but take care not to touch your eyes and wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading infection.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine when your eye doctor tells you to, or if you experience serious side effects such as severe eye pain, vision changes, or allergic reactions. Do not stop abruptly if you have been using it for a long time without consulting your doctor.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine can lead to increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, cataract formation, and secondary eye infections. It may also cause thinning of the cornea. Regular eye examinations are essential if prolonged use is necessary. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical supervision.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Warm compresses

Can help relieve discomfort and loosen crusts in blepharitis.

Evidence: Well-established
Lid hygiene

Regular cleaning of eyelids can help prevent recurrence of blepharitis.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific interaction with vaccines is established for this ocular ointment. However, if you are using systemic corticosteroids, live vaccines should be avoided. Consult your doctor.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this eye ointment in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription in case you need to show it at customs or if you need a refill while traveling. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. If you are traveling across time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as closely as possible. Do not leave the ointment in a hot car or in direct sunlight.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with bacterial conjunctivitis
She was prescribed this eye ointment for a red, swollen eye with discharge. After using it as directed for 5 days, her symptoms improved significantly. She learned to apply it carefully without touching the tip to her eye and avoided driving right after application.
💡 Lesson: Proper application technique and adherence to the prescribed duration are key to recovery.
👤 A 60-year-old man with blepharitis
He used this ointment for eyelid inflammation and infection. His eye doctor monitored his eye pressure regularly because of the steroid component. He was advised not to use it for more than 2 weeks without a check-up.
💡 Lesson: Regular monitoring is important when using steroid-containing eye medicines, especially in older adults.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling relief within 24 to 48 hours, but complete healing may take several days. If symptoms do not improve in 2-3 days, consult your doctor.

Q: Can I use this medicine for a viral eye infection?

A: No, this medicine is only for bacterial infections. Using it for viral infections can worsen the condition.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally touch the tube tip to my eye?

A: Wipe the tip with a clean tissue and avoid touching it again. If you are concerned about contamination, consult your pharmacist.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I use this medicine for viral eye infection?
  • How long can I use this eye ointment safely?
  • Will it affect my vision?
  • Can I wear contact lenses while using this?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Is it safe for children?

🔄 Substitutes for anchlor-dx eye ointment

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be used for any red eye.
    Fact: This medicine is only for bacterial eye infections with inflammation. It can worsen viral or fungal infections.
  • Myth: It is safe to use for months without check-up.
    Fact: Prolonged use can increase eye pressure and cause cataracts or secondary infections. Regular eye exams are necessary.
  • Myth: You can share this ointment with family members.
    Fact: Never share eye medications. This can spread infection and cause incorrect treatment.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Chloramphenicol and dexamethasone eye ointment (generic)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Chloramphenicol 10 mg + Dexamethasone 1 mg per gram","route":"Topical (ophthalmic)","primary_use":"Bacterial eye infections with inflammation"},{"medicine":"Tobramycin and dexamethasone eye ointment","composition":"Tobramycin 3 mg + Dexamethasone 1 mg per gram","route":"Topical (ophthalmic)","primary_use":"Bacterial eye infections with inflammation"}]

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