pychlor eye ointment - Polymyxin B (5000IU) + Chloramphenicol (1mg) medicine

Excol Eye Ointment: A Comprehensive Guide

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🏭 Mac Laboratories Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 22, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for approved 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

  • Sudden vision loss or severe eye pain
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Severe rash or hives
  • Unusual tiredness, easy bruising, or bleeding
  • Signs of infection that worsen or do not improve after 3 days
  • Eye discharge that becomes thick and yellow-green

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is pychlor eye ointment used for?

This medicine is a combination antibiotic eye ointment used to treat bacterial eye infections. It contains Polymyxin B and Chloramphenicol, which work together to kill bacteria. Apply a small amount to the affected eye as directed by your doctor, usually 1-3 times daily. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice.

  • Generic Name: Polymyxin B (5000IU) + Chloramphenicol (1mg)
  • Manufacturer: Mac Laboratories Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 pychlor eye ointment के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक संयुक्त एंटीबायोटिक आई ऑइंटमेंट है जिसका उपयोग बैक्टीरियल आंखों के संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। इसमें पॉलिमिक्सिन बी और क्लोरैम्फेनिकॉल होते हैं जो बैक्टीरिया को मारते हैं। यह आंखों की लालिमा, सूजन, डिस्चार्ज और जलन को कम करने में मदद करता है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार प्रभावित आंख में लगाएं।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में अस्थायी धुंधली दृष्टि, आंखों में जलन, खुजली या लालिमा शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, अस्थि मज्जा दमन या दृष्टि परिवर्तन हो सकते हैं। किसी भी गंभीर लक्षण पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का उपयोग डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही 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 15 मिनट प्रतीक्षा करें। निर्धारित अवधि से अधिक उपयोग न करें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें।

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

💊 pychlor eye ointment Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Bacterial conjunctivitis","description":"Treats bacterial infection of the conjunctiva, reducing redness, discharge, and irritation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Blepharitis","description":"Helps control bacterial infection of the eyelid margins, reducing crusting and inflammation.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bacterial keratitis","description":"Used for superficial bacterial corneal infections under medical supervision.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bacterial corneal ulcers","description":"Adjunctive therapy for corneal ulcers caused by susceptible bacteria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Trachoma","description":"May be used in the treatment of trachoma, a chlamydial eye infection, as part of a broader treatment plan.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Prevention of infection after eye injury","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label to prevent infection after minor ocular trauma or foreign body removal.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Post-operative prophylaxis","description":"Occasionally used after ocular surgery to prevent bacterial infection, though evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Bacterial eye infections

Also treats: Conjunctivitis, Blepharitis, Keratitis, Corneal ulcers

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Polymyxin B (5000IU) + Chloramphenicol (1mg)
Brand Namepychlor eye ointment
ManufacturerMac Laboratories Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassOPHTHAL OTOLOGICALS
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOphthalmic
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C). Protect from light and moisture. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.
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
Always wash your hands before and after applying the ointment to prevent contamination.
2
Apply a thin ribbon of ointment (about 1 cm) into the lower eyelid pouch.
3
Avoid touching the tube tip to your eye or any surface.
4
Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed to prevent resistance.
5
If you wear contact lenses, remove them before application and wait 15 minutes before reinserting.
6
If symptoms do not improve within 2-3 days, consult your doctor.
7
Report any unusual eye pain, vision changes, or signs of allergic reaction immediately.

🔍 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
❌
Itchy, watery eyes
This medicine is not for allergic conjunctivitis.
Not Primary
✅
Eye pain and blurred vision
May be used for corneal infections, but requires medical diagnosis.
Likely Use

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionSystemic absorption is minimal when applied topically to the eye. However, some absorption can occur through the conjunctiva and nasal mucosa, especially if the eye is inflamed or if the ointment is used excessively.
DistributionNot established from the available information.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismChloramphenicol is metabolized in the liver primarily by glucuronidation. Polymyxin B is not significantly metabolized.
Half-LifeNot established from the available information.
ExcretionChloramphenicol and its metabolites are excreted mainly in urine. Polymyxin B is excreted primarily in urine.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionSymptomatic relief may begin within 1-2 days of starting treatment, but complete resolution depends on the severity of infection.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information.
Duration of ActionThe antibacterial effect lasts for several hours after application; the ointment base provides prolonged contact.

How It Works

This medicine combines two antibiotics with different mechanisms. Polymyxin B is a cyclic polypeptide that binds to the lipopolysaccharide component of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. This binding disrupts the membrane integrity, leading to leakage of intracellular contents and bacterial cell death. Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum bacteriostatic antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding reversibly to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing peptide bond formation. The combination provides synergistic or additive activity against many ocular pathogens.

Mechanism Steps

1
Polymyxin B binds to lipopolysaccharides: Polymyxin B attaches to the lipid A portion of lipopolysaccharides in the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria.
2
Membrane disruption: This binding displaces calcium and magnesium ions, destabilizing the membrane and increasing permeability.
3
Cell leakage and death: The compromised membrane allows leakage of essential cellular contents, leading to bacterial cell death.
4
Chloramphenicol enters bacteria: Chloramphenicol penetrates bacterial cells and binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit.
5
Protein synthesis inhibition: It blocks the peptidyl transferase activity, preventing the formation of peptide bonds and halting protein synthesis.
6
Bacterial growth arrest: Without essential proteins, bacteria cannot grow or multiply, and are eventually cleared by the immune system.

💡 How to Take pychlor eye ointment

Strength: Eye ointment containing Polymyxin B 5000 IU and Chloramphenicol 1 mg per gram.

1Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2Remove the cap from the tube, taking care not to touch the tip.
3Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pouch.
4Squeeze a small amount (about 1 cm) of ointment into the pouch.
5Close your eye gently and roll your eyeball to spread the ointment.
6Wipe away any excess ointment from the eyelid with a clean tissue.
7Replace the cap tightly.
8Wash your hands again to remove any medicine.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is a small amount (about 1 cm) of ointment applied to the affected eye(s) one to three times daily, or as directed by your doctor. The frequency and duration depend on the type and severity of the infection. 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.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients when used as directed. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects; use with caution.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is typically required for topical ophthalmic use. However, if systemic absorption is a concern, consult a doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is typically required for topical ophthalmic use. However, if systemic absorption is a concern, consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseNot established from the available information. Use only as prescribed by your doctor.

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 pychlor eye ointment

✅ Common Side Effects

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

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing, or severe rash.
Bone marrow suppression (Rare (<0.1%))
Report unusual tiredness, easy bruising, bleeding, or frequent infections to your doctor immediately.
Optic neuritis (Rare (<0.1%))
If you notice vision changes, eye pain, or loss of vision, stop the medicine and seek medical help promptly.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Secondary fungal infection
Consult your doctor if you develop new or worsening eye symptoms such as white patches or persistent discharge.
Superinfection with resistant bacteria
If symptoms do not improve or worsen, contact your doctor; a different antibiotic may be needed.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Moderate
Oral hypoglycemics Moderate
Other ophthalmic antibiotics Major
Bone marrow suppressants Major

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Other ophthalmic antibiotics
  • Bone marrow suppressants (e.g., chemotherapy, chloramphenicol systemic)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Oral hypoglycemics

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

No known interaction with alcohol when used topically in the eye. However, alcohol may worsen underlying conditions or interact with other medications.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to Polymyxin B, Chloramphenicol, or any component of the formulation","History of bone marrow suppression or blood dyscrasias","Viral, fungal, or mycobacterial eye infections (unless concurrent appropriate therapy)","Perforated eardrum (if used in ear, though this is an eye ointment)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Prolonged use may lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi.","Do not use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.","Avoid touching the tip of the tube to the eye or any surface to prevent contamination.","If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 2-3 days, discontinue and consult a doctor.","Use with caution in patients with a history of blood disorders.","Not for injection or oral use.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk in significant amounts. Consult your doctor before use if breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose is unlikely with topical ophthalmic use. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of systemic chloramphenicol overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and bone marrow suppression. 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 exactly as prescribed by your 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 eye ointment with anyone else. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before application and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting. Do not use this medicine for longer than prescribed, as prolonged use may cause unwanted effects. If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or worsen, contact your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store as directed on the label.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects. Use with caution and monitor for any unusual symptoms.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It should be used only if clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be prescribed after eye surgery to prevent infection. Use exactly as directed by your surgeon.

🦷 Dental Procedures

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

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain good hand hygiene to prevent spreading eye infections.
🥗
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
😴
Do not share towels, pillows, or eye makeup.
💧
Clean your contact lenses properly and replace them as recommended.
🧘
Follow a healthy diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E for eye health.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

No specific exercise restrictions while using this medicine. However, if you experience blurred vision after application, avoid activities that require clear vision until it clears.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include foods rich in vitamin A (carrots, spinach) for eye health.
Stay hydrated to maintain tear production.
Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol which can cause dehydration.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause temporary blurred vision after application. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision is clear. Otherwise, it should not significantly impact your daily activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine if you experience a serious allergic reaction, or if your doctor advises discontinuation. Do not stop prematurely even if symptoms improve, as this may lead to recurrence. Consult your doctor before stopping.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Prolonged use of this medicine may lead to antibiotic resistance, secondary fungal infections, or superinfection with resistant bacteria. It should only be used for the prescribed duration. Long-term use is not recommended unless under strict 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
Eyelid hygiene

Regular cleaning of eyelids can prevent recurrence of blepharitis.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No known interaction with vaccines. However, if you have an active eye infection, consult your doctor before vaccination.

📦 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 medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label intact. Bring a copy of your prescription in case of customs checks. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or cold. If traveling across time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as close as possible. Keep the tube tightly closed and avoid exposing it to 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 medicine for a red, itchy eye with discharge. She applied it three times daily as directed. Within two days, the redness and discharge reduced significantly. She completed the full 7-day course and the infection cleared completely.
💡 Lesson: Consistent application and completing the full course are key to resolving the infection and preventing recurrence.
👤 A 60-year-old man with blepharitis
He had chronic eyelid crusting and irritation. His doctor prescribed this medicine along with eyelid hygiene. After using it for a week, his symptoms improved markedly. He was advised not to use it long-term to avoid resistance.
💡 Lesson: This medicine is effective for blepharitis when used as part of a comprehensive eyelid care routine.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may start feeling relief within 1-2 days, but complete resolution may take up to a week depending on the infection.

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

A: No, this medicine is only effective against bacterial infections. Viral infections require different treatment.

Q: Is it safe for children?

A: Pediatric dosing is not established. Consult a pediatrician before use in children.

Q: Can I wear contact lenses while using this?

A: Remove contact lenses before applying the ointment and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting.

Q: What if I miss a dose?

A: Apply as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I use this medicine for viral eye infection?
  • How long does it take to work?
  • Is it safe for children?
  • Can I wear contact lenses while using this?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I use it for ear infections?

🔄 Substitutes for pychlor 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 eye infection.
    Fact: It is only effective against bacterial infections. Viral or fungal infections require different treatments.
  • Myth: It is safe to use for long periods.
    Fact: Prolonged use can lead to antibiotic resistance and secondary infections. Use only as prescribed.
  • Myth: You can stop using it as soon as symptoms improve.
    Fact: You should complete the full course as prescribed to prevent recurrence and resistance.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Polymyxin B + Chloramphenicol ophthalmic ointment

Brand Alternatives

  • Excol Eye Ointment

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Polymyxin B 5000 IU + Chloramphenicol 1 mg","uses":"Bacterial eye infections","notes":"Broad-spectrum, combination product"},{"medicine":"Chloramphenicol eye ointment","composition":"Chloramphenicol 1%","uses":"Bacterial eye infections","notes":"Single antibiotic, bacteriostatic"},{"medicine":"Tobramycin eye ointment","composition":"Tobramycin 0.3%","uses":"Bacterial eye infections","notes":"Aminoglycoside, bactericidal"}]

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