Decalor0.1%+0.5%

Decalor 0.1%+0.5% drops are used for bacterial infections accompanied by inflammation, in either the eye or the ear depending on the specific product formulation. Ophthalmic (eye) and otic (ear) formulations of this combination are not interchangeable, and the generic name alone does not identify which route a given product is intended for.

• Ophthalmic formulations: bacterial conjunctivitis and other superficial bacterial eye infections with associated inflammation, and inflammatory conditions of the anterior segment of the eye where a corticosteroid is appropriate alongside antibiotic treatment
• Otic formulations: bacterial ear infections with associated inflammation, where the product is specifically licensed for ear use

Decalor 0.1%+0.5% is not effective for, and should not be used in, viral, fungal, or tuberculous eye infections.

Formulations of Dexamethasone and Chloramphenicol vary in both concentration and intended route (ophthalmic or otic); commonly cited strengths include chloramphenicol 0.5% with dexamethasone 0.1%, though other combinations and preservative systems (such as phenylmercuric nitrate) also exist. The generic name alone does not identify the specific strength or whether a given product is licensed for eye use, ear use, or both. Always confirm the intended route and exact strength on the specific product's own labeling before use.

Decalor 0.1%+0.5% is a combination antibiotic-steroid preparation used as eye or ear drops. Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that treats susceptible bacterial infections, while dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that reduces the inflammation, redness, and discomfort that often accompany infection. This combination is used topically only, in the eye or ear as indicated by the specific product, and is not intended for systemic or oral use.

Therapeutic Class: Ophthalmic/otic corticosteroid-antibiotic combination

Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum bacteriostatic antibiotic active against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms; it acts by binding to bacterial ribosomes and inhibiting protein synthesis. Dexamethasone has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic activity and is well absorbed into ocular tissue after topical instillation. Some systemic absorption can occur with topical ophthalmic or otic use, particularly with prolonged use or application to broken skin or mucosa.

Confirm whether the specific product being used is labeled for ophthalmic (eye) or otic (ear) use before administering, since these formulations and their application technique are not interchangeable.

If labeled for eye use

• Wash hands before use
• Tilt the head back, gently pull down the lower eyelid to form a pocket, and instill the prescribed number of drops
• Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye or any surface to prevent contamination
• Close the eyes gently for 1-2 minutes after instillation

If labeled for ear use

• Lie on your side or tilt the head so the affected ear faces up
• Instill the prescribed number of drops into the ear canal
• Remain in this position for a few minutes to allow the drops to settle

Systemic absorption from topical eye or ear use is generally limited, so significant systemic drug interactions are uncommon with normal use. If other eye or ear medicines are used at the same time, they should be spaced apart, and any concerns should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects

• Transient burning, stinging, or discomfort on instillation
• Redness, itching, or a foreign body sensation in the eye
• Temporary blurred vision
• Dryness of the eye

Serious side effects with prolonged use

• Raised intraocular pressure, with possible development of glaucoma
• Posterior subcapsular cataract formation
• Optic nerve damage (infrequent)
• Delayed wound healing and increased risk of secondary eye infection

Rarely, chloramphenicol use has been associated with serious blood disorders; report unusual bruising, bleeding, fatigue, or signs of infection to a doctor promptly.

Pregnancy

There are no adequate, well-controlled studies of this combination in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as advised by a doctor.

Breastfeeding

Caution should be exercised when this combination is used by a nursing mother, since some systemic absorption of both components can occur; use should be guided by a healthcare professional.

• Avoid use in viral, fungal, or tuberculous eye infections, as the corticosteroid component may worsen these conditions.
• Prolonged use may raise intraocular pressure and increase the risk of glaucoma or cataract; monitoring is recommended if used beyond about 7-10 days.
• The use of chloramphenicol is generally avoided in neonates due to the theoretical risk of systemic toxicity (Gray baby syndrome) with substantial systemic exposure, though topical ocular use carries much lower systemic exposure than oral or intravenous use.
• If there is no improvement after about a week of use, or if an allergic reaction develops, treatment should be reassessed by a doctor.
• For ear use, avoid use in a perforated eardrum unless specifically directed by a doctor, and do not use ear drop formulations in the eye or vice versa.

Topical overdose is uncommon with normal use, but excessive or prolonged use increases the risk of steroid-related eye effects such as raised eye pressure. If the product is accidentally swallowed, or if excessive amounts are applied, seek medical advice. Stop use and consult a doctor if irritation or symptoms worsen.

Store as directed on the product label, typically at controlled room temperature, protected from light, and tightly closed between uses. Do not use after the labeled expiry date. Discard any unused portion after the manufacturer's specified in-use period following opening, as this can vary by product.

• Neonates: Use with particular caution due to concerns about systemic chloramphenicol exposure; some product labeling advises against use in this age group, regardless of route.
• Elderly: No specific dose adjustment is generally required, though monitoring for raised eye pressure with prolonged ophthalmic use applies as in any patient.

Treatment is generally used for a short course, often around 5 to 7 days for eye infections, and should not typically exceed about 10 days without medical reassessment, due to the risk of steroid-related eye complications and antibiotic resistance with prolonged antibiotic exposure.

Drug Class: Corticosteroid (dexamethasone) combined with a broad-spectrum antibiotic (chloramphenicol), for topical ophthalmic or otic use

Chloramphenicol works by binding to the bacterial ribosome and blocking bacterial protein synthesis at an early stage, which stops bacterial growth. Dexamethasone works by suppressing the local inflammatory response, reducing swelling, redness, and irritation caused by infection or other inflammatory triggers. Together, the combination targets both the infection and the associated inflammation.

Decalor 0.1%+0.5% is used in children as well as adults for bacterial eye or ear infections with inflammation, though use in neonates is generally approached with caution due to concerns about chloramphenicol systemic exposure. Dosing in children should be as directed by the prescribing doctor.