Benzocaine / Chloramphenicol
Benzocaine/Chloramphenicol is a combination medication used primarily in ophthalmic preparations for eye conditions requiring both local anesthesia and antibacterial coverage. Benzocaine provides temporary numbing relief while chloramphenicol acts as a broad-spectrum antibiotic to prevent or treat bacterial infections. This combination is commonly used for corneal abrasions, minor eye surgeries, and post-procedural care.
An eye medication combining a topical anesthetic with an antibiotic for conditions requiring pain relief and bacterial infection prevention.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1007635
- Generic
- Benzocaine / Chloramphenicol
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats corneal abrasions, provides anesthesia during minor eye procedures, and prevents bacterial infection following eye surgery or trauma. May also be used for bacterial conjunctivitis with associated discomfort.
Benzocaine blocks sodium channels on nerve endings, preventing pain signal transmission for temporary numbing. Chloramphenicol inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to ribosomal subunits, effective against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria commonly causing eye infections.
For ophthalmic use only—avoid contamination of applicator tip. Should not be used long-term due to risk of serious side effects including rare cases of aplastic anemia with chloramphenicol. Use with caution in patients with history of blood disorders. Duration of anesthetic effect is typically brief; prolonged use of topical anesthetics in the eye is not recommended.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy