Australia switches chloramphenicol eye drops

Executive Summary

Australia moves chloramphenicol-containing eye drops to nonprescription distribution by pharmacists, harmonizing the country's regulation with New Zealand's. The National Drugs and Poisons Schedule Committee in October said that other nonprescription products are indicated for mild cases of bacterial conjunctivitis, but it is "sensible to allow pharmacists to supply cholramphenicol for the treatment of more severe, uncomplicated cases." Australia and New Zealand are harmonizing requirements for therapeutic products and establishing a joint regulatory scheme under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangement (1"The Tan Sheet" Feb. 2, 2009). Chloramphenicol-containing eye drops remain Rx in the U.S