Combination eye drop: Steroid + Antibiotic + Decongestant
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination eye drop containing three active ingredients: dexamethasone (a steroid that reduces swelling and inflammation), chloramphenicol (an antibiotic that kills bacteria), and tetryzoline (a decongestant that reduces redness by shrinking blood vessels in the eye). Known in Nigeria as Optodexine Eye Drops.
Binds to glucocorticoid receptors to suppress inflammatory gene expression and reduce edema, while chloramphenicol inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, and tetrahydrozoline activates alpha-2 adrenergic receptors to cause vasoconstriction and reduce conjunctival hyperemia.
Red eye, eye infections with swelling, bacterial conjunctivitis (apollo), inflammation of the eye after injury or surgery, allergic eye conditions with infection
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you forget a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not double up by putting extra drops.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Do not use Optodexine Eye Drops for more than 7 days without a doctor's review, as long-term steroid use in the eye can cause serious problems like increased eye pressure. Do not share your eye drops with anyone, even if they have similar symptoms like apollo, because eye infections spread easily this way. Always buy from a licensed pharmacy, not roadside sellers, and check the expiry date before use.
If you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, wait at least 5-10 minutes between each one. Do not use with other steroid eye drops unless your doctor says so. If you are taking any medication for glaucoma, inform your doctor before using this drop.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Dexamethasone; with your other drugs?
Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically prescribes it, as the steroid and antibiotic components may pose risks to your baby.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so keeping it in a cupboard away from windows is ideal. Once opened, use within 28 days and discard after that. Keep the cap tightly closed and store out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.