Ah found this on Hale.
It seems he doesn't recommend chloramphenicol because he thinks it is bad for YOU but it wouldn't harm your baby.
In the UK, chloramphenicol 0.5% eye drops are normally prescribed for bacterial conjunctivitis. Is this appropriate for a breast-feeding mother? And if not, what are the best alternatives? Thank you for your reply.
Tom Hale Ph.D.
Member
Username: Tom
Post Number: 1311
Registered: 04-2003
Posted on Sunday, October 02, 2005 - 03:18 pm:
----------------
Dr. Ledadbetter:
I don't think chloramphenicol is ever appropriate today. We have so many other products that you could use that wouldn't expose this patient to the problems associated with chloramphenicol. The older literature suggests that topical or ophthalmic use of chlor, followed by oral use, lead to a higher risk of agranulocytosis...because it sensitized the patient.
I'd stick to ciprofloxacin, tobramycin, or even sulfonamides ophthalmically.
That said, there wouldn't be enough absorbed to ever bother a breastfed infant.
(my stars for emphasis)
Tom Hale Ph.D.