Source: DTB
Area: Evidence > Disease Focused Reviews
This review in the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (DTB) examines the evidence on the efficacy of antibacterials in acute infective conjunctivitis and provides practical information and advice for prescribers and community pharmacists on managing patients with the condition.
It contains the following conclusions and recommendations:
. Evidence from RCTs indicates that topical antibacterials offer a modest clinical benefit in infective conjunctivitis.
. As most cases are self-limiting, a 'wait and see' or delayed prescribing approach is likely to be most appropriate.
. The availability of topical chloramphenicol over the counter has increased its use and may have medicalised the illness, and conflicts with the public health message that inappropriate antibacterial use needs to be reduced.
. Potential users of topical chloramphenicol must be informed about the limited effectiveness of antibacterials ...
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