cemix h eye ointment - Chloramphenicol (1% w/w) + Hydrocortisone (0.5% w/w) medicine

Chlor H Eye Ointment: Comprehensive Medicine Guide

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🏭 Orbit Biocare 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 22, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for short-term use in bacterial conjunctivitis with inflammation; limited for other indications.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 22, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe eye pain or sudden vision loss
  • Increased redness, swelling, or discharge that worsens
  • Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, itching, or swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Unusual fatigue, bruising, or bleeding
  • Eye pain with nausea or vomiting
  • New or worsening eye infection symptoms after starting treatment

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is cemix h eye ointment used for?

This medicine is a combination eye ointment containing chloramphenicol (an antibiotic) and hydrocortisone (a corticosteroid). It is used to treat bacterial eye infections that are accompanied by inflammation. It should be used only under medical supervision for short periods.

  • Generic Name: Chloramphenicol + Hydrocortisone
  • Manufacturer: Orbit Biocare
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 cemix h eye ointment के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक संयोजन नेत्र मरहम है जिसमें क्लोरैम्फेनिकॉल (एक एंटीबायोटिक) और हाइड्रोकोर्टिसोन (एक स्टेरॉयड) शामिल हैं। इसका उपयोग बैक्टीरियल आंखों के संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है जिसमें सूजन और लालिमा भी होती है। यह आंखों की सतह पर लगाया जाता है और डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही इस्तेमाल किया जाना चाहिए। यह वायरल, फंगल या पैरासिटिक संक्रमण के लिए प्रभावी नहीं है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में अस्थायी धुंधली दृष्टि, हल्की जलन या चुभन, और आंखों में लालिमा शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में आंखों का दबाव बढ़ना, दूसरा संक्रमण, और दुर्लभ रक्त विकार हो सकते हैं। यदि आंखों में तेज दर्द, दृष्टि में बदलाव, या संक्रमण बिगड़ने के लक्षण दिखें तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का उपयोग केवल डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार करें। लगाने से पहले और बाद में हाथ धोएं। ट्यूब की नोक को आंख या किसी सतह से न छुएं। कॉन्टैक्ट लेंस पहनने से पहले हटा दें और दवा लगाने के 15 मिनट बाद ही दोबारा पहनें। लंबे समय तक उपयोग न करें क्योंकि इससे ग्लूकोमा, मोतियाबिंद और दूसरे संक्रमण का खतरा बढ़ सकता है। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 cemix h eye ointment Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Bacterial conjunctivitis with inflammation","description":"Used to treat bacterial infection of the conjunctiva accompanied by redness and swelling.","evidence":"Well-established for short-term use under medical supervision."},{"condition":"Blepharitis with bacterial component","description":"Helps control bacterial infection and inflammation of the eyelid margins.","evidence":"Commonly used, though evidence is moderate."},{"condition":"Bacterial keratitis with inflammation","description":"May be used in specific cases where bacterial infection and inflammation coexist, but only under close ophthalmologic care.","evidence":"Limited; corticosteroid use in keratitis requires careful evaluation."}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Post-operative ocular inflammation with suspected bacterial infection","description":"Sometimes prescribed after eye surgery to prevent infection and reduce inflammation, though not a standard approved indication.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Bacterial eye infections with inflammation

Also treats: Bacterial conjunctivitis, Blepharitis, Bacterial keratitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Chloramphenicol + Hydrocortisone
Brand NameBelmycetine C Eye Ointment
ManufacturerOrbit Biocare
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassOPHTHAL OTOLOGICALS
Action ClassAntibiotic + Corticosteroid
Route of AdministrationTopical (ophthalmic). Apply a thin ribbon of ointment into the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C). Do not freeze. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use. Protect from light and moisture.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture, unless otherwise specified 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
Apply the ointment exactly as prescribed, usually every 3 to 4 hours or as directed.
2
Wash your hands before and after application to prevent contamination.
3
Avoid touching the tube tip to your eye or any surface.
4
Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed, as prolonged use can cause serious eye problems.
5
If you wear contact lenses, remove them before application and wait 15 minutes before reinserting.
6
Report any worsening of symptoms or new symptoms to your doctor immediately.
7
Do not share your eye ointment with anyone else.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Red, itchy, or swollen eyes with discharge
This medicine is commonly prescribed for bacterial eye infections with inflammation.
Likely Use
❌
Blurred vision
This medicine may cause temporary blurred vision after application, but it is not used to treat blurred vision.
Not Primary
❌
Eye pain
Eye pain may be a sign of a serious condition and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionChloramphenicol and hydrocortisone can be absorbed systemically through the conjunctiva and nasal mucosa after topical ocular application, but systemic absorption is generally low. The extent depends on the integrity of the corneal epithelium and duration of use.
DistributionAfter absorption, chloramphenicol distributes widely into body tissues and fluids, including the aqueous humor and vitreous humor of the eye. Hydrocortisone distributes into various tissues and is bound to plasma proteins.
Protein BindingChloramphenicol is approximately 50-60% bound to plasma proteins. Hydrocortisone is about 90% bound to plasma proteins, primarily transcortin and albumin.
MetabolismChloramphenicol is primarily metabolized in the liver by glucuronidation to chloramphenicol glucuronide. Hydrocortisone is metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites, mainly tetrahydrocortisone and tetrahydrocortisol.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of chloramphenicol is approximately 1.5 to 3.5 hours in adults with normal liver function. Hydrocortisone has a biological half-life of about 8 to 12 hours.
ExcretionChloramphenicol and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine, with a small amount in bile and feces. Hydrocortisone metabolites are excreted in urine.
BioavailabilitySystemic bioavailability after topical ocular administration is not well established but is considered low compared to oral or intravenous routes.
Onset of ActionThe antibacterial effect begins within hours of application, but noticeable improvement in symptoms may take 1 to 2 days. Anti-inflammatory effects of hydrocortisone may start within hours.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information for topical ocular use.
Duration of ActionThe antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects last for several hours after application, typically requiring dosing every 3 to 4 hours or as directed.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with distinct mechanisms. Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum bacteriostatic antibiotic that binds reversibly to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, inhibiting peptidyl transferase activity and thereby blocking protein synthesis. This prevents bacterial growth and multiplication. Hydrocortisone is a glucocorticoid that binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, leading to suppression of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, and reducing capillary permeability, edema, and cellular infiltration. Together, they address both bacterial infection and the associated inflammatory response.

Mechanism Steps

1
Chloramphenicol binds to bacterial ribosome: Chloramphenicol reversibly binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, specifically inhibiting the peptidyl transferase enzyme.
2
Inhibition of protein synthesis: This binding prevents the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids, halting bacterial protein synthesis and stopping bacterial growth.
3
Hydrocortisone binds to glucocorticoid receptor: Hydrocortisone enters cells and binds to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus.
4
Suppression of inflammatory genes: The complex modulates gene transcription, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes like COX-2, leading to decreased inflammation.
5
Combined clinical effect: The antibiotic action controls bacterial infection while the corticosteroid reduces inflammatory symptoms, providing relief and aiding recovery.

💡 How to Take cemix h eye ointment

Strength: Eye ointment containing chloramphenicol 1% w/w and hydrocortisone 0.5% w/w.

1Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2Gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket.
3Squeeze a thin ribbon (about 1 cm) of ointment into the pocket without touching the tube tip to your eye.
4Close your eye gently and roll your eyeball to spread the ointment.
5Wipe away any excess ointment with a clean tissue.
6Replace the cap tightly and wash your hands again.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is a thin ribbon of ointment applied to the affected eye(s) every 3 to 4 hours, or as directed by your ophthalmologist. The frequency and duration depend on the severity of the infection and your response to treatment. Do not use for longer than prescribed. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician or ophthalmologist for appropriate use in children.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustment is established for elderly patients. Use with caution and monitor for side effects, especially with prolonged use.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment due to potential systemic absorption.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Use with caution in patients with liver disease.
Maximum Daily DoseNot established from the available information. Follow your doctor's prescription.

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 cemix h eye ointment

✅ Common Side Effects

Temporary blurred vision (Common (5-10%))
Wait until vision clears before driving or operating machinery. Usually resolves within minutes.
Mild stinging or burning (Common (5-10%))
This is usually transient. If persistent or severe, consult your doctor.
Eye irritation or redness (Common (5-10%))
If it worsens or does not improve, contact your eye doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Increased intraocular pressure (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Requires monitoring by an eye doctor. Report any eye pain or vision changes.
Secondary eye infection (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Seek medical attention if you notice new or worsening symptoms.
Blood disorders (e.g., aplastic anemia, bone marrow suppression) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience unusual fatigue, bruising, or bleeding.
Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Discontinue use and seek emergency care if you experience swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Cataract formation
Long-term use may increase risk. Regular eye exams are recommended.
Corneal thinning or perforation
Report any eye pain or vision changes immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Other ocular corticosteroids Major
Live vaccines Major
CYP3A4 inhibitors Moderate
Other antibiotics Moderate
Contact lens solutions Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other topical ocular corticosteroids
  • Live vaccines

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Other antibiotics
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

No specific interaction is established between this topical eye ointment and alcohol. However, alcohol may worsen certain eye conditions or interact with other medicines you are taking. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol, hydrocortisone, or any component of the ointment","Viral, fungal, or parasitic eye infections","Acute purulent bacterial conjunctivitis without medical supervision","History of aplastic anemia or bone marrow suppression related to chloramphenicol","Use in patients with untreated ocular infections that could be masked by corticosteroids"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Prolonged use may increase the risk of glaucoma, cataracts, and secondary infections.","Corticosteroids can mask signs of worsening infection.","Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice.","Avoid touching the tube tip to the eye to prevent contamination.","If symptoms persist or worsen, consult an eye doctor.","Systemic absorption may occur, especially with prolonged use or damaged corneal epithelium.","Use with caution in patients with a history of herpes simplex keratitis."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether chloramphenicol or hydrocortisone from this ointment passes into breast milk in significant amounts. Systemically absorbed chloramphenicol is excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose from topical ocular use is unlikely. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of systemic chloramphenicol overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and blood disorders. 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

Use this medicine only as prescribed by your eye doctor. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the ointment. Avoid touching the tip of the tube to your eye or any surface to prevent contamination. Do not share your tube with anyone else. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the ointment and wait at least 15 minutes after application before reinserting them, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Do not use this medicine for longer than recommended, as prolonged use of corticosteroids can increase the risk of glaucoma, cataracts, and secondary infections. If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or worsen, seek medical advice. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the side effects of corticosteroids, such as increased intraocular pressure and cataract formation. Use with caution and monitor regularly.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before using this medicine. The safety of this combination in pregnancy has not been fully established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

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

🦷 Dental Procedures

No specific considerations for dental procedures. However, inform your dentist about all medicines you are using.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain good hand hygiene to prevent spreading infection.
🥗
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
😴
Do not share towels, pillows, or eye makeup with others.
💧
Follow a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E for eye health.
🧘
Get adequate sleep to support healing.
🌞
Avoid wearing contact lenses until the infection clears.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

No specific exercise restrictions are established. However, if you experience blurred vision after applying the ointment, avoid activities that require clear vision, such as swimming or contact sports, until vision clears.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include foods rich in vitamin A (carrots, spinach) for eye health.
Stay well hydrated.
Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol which may worsen eye dryness.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause temporary blurred vision after application, which can affect driving, operating machinery, or performing tasks requiring clear vision. It is advisable to apply the ointment at bedtime or when you do not need to drive. Otherwise, it should not significantly impact your daily work life.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine immediately and consult your doctor if you experience severe eye pain, vision changes, signs of allergic reaction, or if your symptoms worsen. Do not stop abruptly if you are using it for a prescribed duration without consulting your doctor, as the infection may recur.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine can lead to increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, cataract formation, corneal thinning, and secondary infections. It may also cause systemic effects due to absorption of chloramphenicol and hydrocortisone. Regular monitoring by an eye doctor is essential if prolonged use is necessary. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Warm compresses

Can help relieve discomfort and loosen crusts in blepharitis or conjunctivitis.

Evidence: Well-established for supportive care.
Lubricating eye drops

May provide symptomatic relief for irritation, but do not treat infection.

Evidence: Supportive.

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Corticosteroids may reduce the efficacy of live vaccines and increase the risk of disseminated infection. Consult your doctor before receiving any live vaccine while using this medicine.

📦 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

When traveling, carry this medicine 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 to a healthcare provider. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or cold. If you are crossing time zones, continue using the ointment at your usual intervals, but adjust to local time as needed. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid temperature extremes in checked baggage.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with bacterial conjunctivitis and significant redness
She was prescribed this eye ointment for a week. She applied it as directed and noticed improvement in redness and discharge within two days. She experienced temporary blurred vision after application, so she used it at bedtime to avoid inconvenience.
💡 Lesson: Using the ointment at bedtime can help manage temporary blurred vision and ensure the medicine stays in contact with the eye longer.
👤 A 60-year-old man with blepharitis and inflammation
He used this medicine for 10 days as prescribed. His symptoms improved, but he developed mild eye irritation. His doctor advised him to stop the ointment and switch to a different treatment. He was monitored for intraocular pressure.
💡 Lesson: Prolonged use of corticosteroid eye ointments requires monitoring for side effects like increased eye pressure and secondary infections.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start noticing improvement in symptoms within 1 to 2 days, but complete healing may take longer. Use it for the full duration prescribed by your doctor.

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

A: No, this medicine is only effective against bacterial infections. It should not be used for viral, fungal, or parasitic eye infections.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: 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.

Q: Can I wear contact lenses while using this medicine?

A: Remove contact lenses before applying the ointment and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Q: Is this medicine safe for long-term use?

A: No, prolonged use can increase the risk of glaucoma, cataracts, and secondary infections. Use only for the duration prescribed by your doctor.

🤔 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?
  • Can I wear contact lenses while using this medicine?
  • Is this medicine safe for children?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?
  • Can I use this medicine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

🔄 Substitutes for cemix h 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 ointment can be used for any eye infection.
    Fact: It is only effective for bacterial infections and should not be used for viral or fungal infections.
  • Myth: It is safe to use for long periods without doctor supervision.
    Fact: Prolonged use can cause serious side effects like glaucoma, cataracts, and secondary infections.
  • Myth: If symptoms improve, you can stop using it immediately.
    Fact: You should complete the full course as prescribed to prevent recurrence and resistance.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Chloramphenicol 1% + Hydrocortisone 0.5% eye ointment (generic)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Chloramphenicol 1% + Hydrocortisone 0.5%","route":"Topical ophthalmic","primary_use":"Bacterial eye infection with inflammation"},{"medicine":"Chloramphenicol eye ointment","composition":"Chloramphenicol 1%","route":"Topical ophthalmic","primary_use":"Bacterial eye infection without inflammation"},{"medicine":"Tobramycin + Dexamethasone eye ointment","composition":"Tobramycin 0.3% + Dexamethasone 0.1%","route":"Topical ophthalmic","primary_use":"Bacterial eye infection with inflammation"}]

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