What are the side effects of chloramphenicol ear drops?

Chloramphenicol ear drops are a topical antibiotic commonly used to treat ear infections, primarily relieving symptoms of bacterial infections such as otitis media or otitis externa. These infections usually present with discomfort including ear pain, increased ear discharge, and hearing loss. Chloramphenicol exerts its antibacterial effect by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, effectively killing many common pathogenic bacteria. However, this medication is only suitable for ear problems caused by bacterial infections and is ineffective against fungal or viral infections. In addition, long-term use may lead to drug resistance or local adverse reactions; therefore, it must be used strictly according to medical instructions.

When using chloramphenicol ear drops, ensure the ear canal is clean to avoid contamination of the medication. Before use, the bottle can be held in the hand to warm slightly, reducing discomfort upon instillation. If symptoms do not improve after a few days of treatment or allergic reactions occur, such as worsening redness, swelling, or itching of the ear, the medication should be discontinued promptly and medical attention sought. It is also important to keep the ear canals dry during daily life and avoid wearing headphones for extended periods or frequently cleaning the ears to prevent infections.