Polychlor Eye/Ear Drops

Introduction

Polychlor is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredients Polymyxin B and Chloramphenicol. It is commonly used to treat infections of the ear caused by susceptible bacteria.

Uses

Polychlor is primarily prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections of the ear, including acute otitis externa (outer ear canal infection) and acute otitis media with tympanostomy tubes (middle ear infection with ear tubes). It is effective against a wide range of bacteria that can cause these types of infections.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage of Polychlor is 2 to 3 drops in the affected ear(s) three to four times a day. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. To administer the ear drops, tilt your head to the side and gently pull the earlobe upward and backward to straighten the ear canal. Carefully instill the prescribed number of drops into the ear canal. After administering the drops, keep your head tilted for a few minutes to allow the medication to reach the infected area.

Mechanism of Action

Polychlor contains two active ingredients: Polymyxin B and Chloramphenicol. Polymyxin B is an antibiotic that works by disrupting the cell membrane of bacteria, leading to their death. Chloramphenicol is also an antibiotic that inhibits the growth of bacteria by interfering with their protein synthesis. Together, these ingredients provide a broad-spectrum antibacterial effect, helping to eliminate the bacteria responsible for the ear infection.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include mild burning or stinging sensation in the ear after administration. These side effects are usually temporary and should subside on their own. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, such as severe ear pain, hearing loss, or rash, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Drug Interactions

inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, as they may interact with Polychlor. There are no known significant drug interactions with Polymyxin B and Chloramphenicol, but it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure the safe use of this medication.

Precautions

Before using Polychlor, inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to Polymyxin B, Chloramphenicol, or any other medications. Additionally, let your healthcare provider know if you have any other medical conditions, especially if you have a perforated eardrum or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Polychlor should be used with caution in these situations, and your healthcare provider will weigh the potential benefits against the risks.

Storage

Patient Tips

• Follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• If you have any questions or concerns about using Polychlor, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification.
• Avoid touching the tip of the dropper to any surface to prevent contamination.
• If you are using other ear drops or any other medications in the same ear, wait at least 5 minutes between applications.
• If your symptoms do not improve or worsen after a few days of treatment, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
• Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve before the treatment is finished.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• Chloramphenicol: antibiotic to treat bacterial infections (NHS UK) [Accessed 26 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Boots Infected Eyes 1%w/w Eye Ointment (Health Professionals SmPC) Available at:
• Chloramphenicol (Drugs.com) [Accessed 4 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• chloramphenicol (ophth) solution (RX) [Accessed 13 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Chloramphenicol Injection (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 24 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Ingall D, Sherman JD. Chloramphenicol. Pediatr Clin North Am. 1968 Feb;15(1):57-72. doi: 10.1016/s0031-3955(16)32088-0. [Accessed 18 Jun. 2024] Available at: