Isee

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Isee

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Isee

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Chloramphenicol, Vitamin A (Retinol Palmitate)
Form Ophthalmic Ointment or Ophthalmic Solution
Pharmacological class Ophthalmic Anti-infective / Fat-Soluble Vitamin
General purpose Antimicrobial action and epithelial tissue support
Origin Synthetic antibiotic and Essential natural vitamin

Isee is defined as a specialized fixed-dose combination ophthalmic preparation designed for topical ocular use, containing both a broad-spectrum antibiotic and an essential vitamin. This formulation is described by its dual therapeutic strategy, combining antimicrobial action with nutritional support. This medicine is formally classified as an Ophthalmic Anti-infective combined with a Fat-Soluble Vitamin, intended for conditions affecting the cornea and conjunctiva.


What Type of Medicine is Isee?

Isee belongs to the pharmacological classes of Ophthalmic Anti-infectives and Fat-Soluble Vitamins. Its identity is centered on the two principal active ingredients: Chloramphenicol, identified as a synthetic broad-spectrum antibiotic, and Vitamin A (often supplied as Retinol Palmitate), a crucial essential natural vitamin. Chloramphenicol functions to control a wide variety of ocular pathogens. Typically, this type of ophthalmic preparation is designated as a prescription-only (Rx) medicine, reflecting the requirement for medical oversight due to the antibiotic component. The formulation is available as a sterile ophthalmic ointment or an aqueous ophthalmic solution for external delivery.


Isee Composition: Dual-Action Ingredients and Form

The composition of Isee is structured to leverage complementary actions. Chloramphenicol functions as a bacteriostatic agent by halting bacterial replication, while Vitamin A is integrated to aid the maintenance and regeneration of the epithelial cells lining the corneal and conjunctival surfaces. Vitamin A provides protective and healing properties to the ocular surface. The ophthalmic ointment form, often utilizing a bland petrolatum-based vehicle, is characteristic of this preparation, ensuring prolonged contact of the active ingredients with the eye's surface.


What is the General Purpose of Combining Chloramphenicol and Vitamin A?

The general purpose of Isee is to achieve effective microbial control while simultaneously supporting the eye’s surface tissues. This dual-action mechanism is designed to stabilize the ocular environment: the Chloramphenicol component addresses the microbial load, and the Vitamin A supports the physical integrity of the eye. This comprehensive approach assists in both controlling the infection and aiding the eye's natural processes for epithelial barrier maintenance.

What side effects are possible with Isee?

Officially Documented Adverse Reactions and Safety Profile

Safety information for this ophthalmic preparation is derived from the official regulatory profile of its active components, primarily Chloramphenicol, as systemic absorption may occur following topical use.

Adverse reactions are classified into system-organ classes according to regulatory documentation:

  • Eye Disorders: These are often local and transient, including stinging, burning, and general irritation following application. The use of ophthalmic ointments may also retard corneal epithelial wound healing.
  • Immune System Disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions may occur, ranging from dermatitis and itching to severe, documented reactions like anaphylaxis.
  • Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: This is the most serious safety concern. Bone marrow hypoplasia and the rare but potentially fatal condition of aplastic anaemia have been reported following topical ocular exposure.

Frequency and Exposure Patterns

The local effects of stinging or burning are typically classified as a common occurrence but are generally transient. Conversely, the most serious risks, such as aplastic anaemia, are associated with prolonged or chronic exposure to the medication.

Safety Constraints and Specific Populations

Regulatory documents establish important constraints based on systemic risk. The medicine is not recommended for use during pregnancy and lactation due to the potential for systemic absorption of Chloramphenicol. It is also contraindicated in individuals with a known personal or family history of blood dyscrasias. Furthermore, the concurrent administration with other medicines known to depress bone marrow function should be avoided.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory guidance for overexposure to this ophthalmic preparation is primarily structured around the systemic toxicity risk of its antibiotic component, Chloramphenicol.

Overdose, which may occur via accidental ingestion or excessive topical use, is documented to present locally with eye irritation, pain, swelling, and photophobia. Systemic overexposure may cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and vomiting, or lead to severe haematological toxicities like leukopenia and thrombocytopenia.

The most severe documented outcomes involve serious and fatal blood dyscrasias, including aplastic anaemia, which is a non-dose-related risk. Regulators also highlight the unique, life-threatening risk known as Gray Syndrome in premature and newborn infants due to their reduced metabolic capacity, which can lead to circulatory collapse.

Immediate Emergency Action

If systemic overexposure is suspected, official labeling mandates that users contact a healthcare professional, hospital emergency department, or regional Poison Control Centre immediately, even if symptoms are not yet present. For local ocular overexposure, the required supportive measure is to irrigate the exposed eye for a minimum of 15 minutes; an ophthalmological examination is considered if local symptoms persist. Treatment of overdosage is symptomatic and supportive.

Therapeutic Uses of Isee

What Isee Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The ophthalmic preparation, Isee, may be part of symptomatic management for acute bacterial ocular infections, including bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye) and microbial keratitis that affect the surface of the eye. It is applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, such as the presence of sticky, mucopurulent discharge, significant eye redness, and a painful gritty sensation which interfere with daily functioning. The antibiotic component of the formulation is utilized for managing these distressing symptoms and may assist with the symptom load associated with bacterial activity.

Supporting Ocular Comfort

The medication is considered relevant in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms where the epithelial barrier may be compromised. The primary therapeutic benefit is applied in addressing the symptoms associated with bacterial activity, which helps ease the overall symptom burden. The supportive nature of the medicine helps the eye during difficult episodes by assisting with maintaining functional stability and contributing to improved comfort during symptomatic periods in the context of surface stress.

Quick Fact: Relief for Dual-Focus Symptoms
Primary Focus Infectious Discharge and Surface Irritation
Conditions Bacterial conjunctivitis, microbial keratitis, and epithelial stress.
Benefit Helps ease symptom load while supporting general well-being.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH StatPearls overview of Chloramphenicol

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Isee — Official Regulatory Information

Category Status (As Stated in Regulatory Labels)
Populations for whom use is allowed Adults and Children aged 2 years and over.
Populations for whom use is not recommended Pregnant individuals and Breastfeeding individuals.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Patients with known hypersensitivity to Chloramphenicol, Retinol Palmitate, or any excipient. Patients with a personal or family history of blood dyscrasias or myelosuppression (bone marrow depression) from previous Chloramphenicol exposure.
Age-related eligibility rules Children under 2 years are permitted only when prescribed by a doctor or other prescriber. Older Adults (Geriatric) are permitted with no specific restrictions.
Condition-specific eligibility rules No specific official restrictions are consistently stated for topical ophthalmic use in cases of hepatic or renal impairment.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status Not recommended during pregnancy or lactation; use is only permitted if considered essential by the prescribing physician.
Eligibility-related restrictions Prolonged or frequent intermittent use is not advisable; treatment duration is typically restricted to 5 days without medical consultation. Concomitant administration of other drugs liable to depress bone marrow function must be avoided.

Eligibility Classifications (High-level)

Category Regulatory Status
Eligibility severity classification Contraindicated (for blood disorders/allergy), Not Recommended (for pregnancy/lactation), Permitted (for adults and children ge 2 years).
Regulatory basis EMA Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), FDA DailyMed, MHRA Government Guidance, and national regulatory agencies.
Eligibility-context constraints Medical History Constraint (Blood dyscrasias), Physiological State Constraint (Pregnancy/Lactation), Concurrent Drug Constraint (Bone marrow depressants).

Resulting Eligibility Structure

Official regulatory documents define the use of Isee by establishing non-negotiable contraindications for individuals with pre-existing blood disorders or known allergies to the components. Use is officially not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding due to the potential for systemic absorption of Chloramphenicol. The medicine is permitted for use in adults and children aged 2 years and over, but restrictions on the duration of treatment and concurrent use of other blood-suppressing drugs apply.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The official regulatory profile for this combination medicine establishes clear restrictions and interaction patterns related to both active components, Chloramphenicol and Vitamin A. These classifications are based on the potential for systemic absorption following topical ocular use.


Key Interaction Restrictions

Classification Interacting Substance Categories
Avoid Combination Medicines liable to depress bone marrow function (e.g., Azathioprine, Methotrexate, Cyclophosphamide).
Systemic Retinoids or Tetracycline Antibiotics (risk of additive toxicity, including pseudotumor cerebri).
Altered Exposure Risk CYP Enzyme Substrates (e.g., Warfarin, Phenytoin, Calcineurin Inhibitors, Oral Sulphonylureas).

Pharmacokinetic and Supplement Interactions

The Chloramphenicol component is a documented inhibitor of Cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP2C19 and CYP3A4). This pharmacokinetic interaction mechanism can lead to reduced clearance and increased plasma exposure of co-administered CYP substrates like Warfarin and Phenytoin.

Furthermore, the product may interfere with the intended therapeutic response to Iron supplements and Vitamin B12 supplements by inhibiting red blood cell maturation. Individuals with hepatic impairment are officially noted to have an increased risk of accumulation and interaction severity due to compromised metabolic clearance.

Mechanism of Action

Targeted Inhibition of Bacterial Growth

The mechanism of the antibiotic component is centered on inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis. The molecule acts as a reversible inhibitor that specifically binds to the 50 S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, which halts the formation of peptide bonds and prevents the elongation of polypeptide chains. This molecular action restricts the pathogen's ability to reproduce, resulting in bacteriostasis (growth inhibition) at the ocular surface.


Transcriptional Support for Epithelial Integrity

The vitamin component functions as a modulator of host cell dynamics, targeting the Retinoic Acid Receptors (RARs) within the corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells. Activation of these nuclear receptors triggers gene expression pathways essential for promoting the normal differentiation and maturation of the surface epithelium, including the production of protective mucous. This mechanism facilitates the maintenance of epithelial structure and promotes the integrity of the eye's physical barrier function.


Dual Mechanistic Coupling for Ocular Stabilization

The fixed-dose combination involves a dual mechanistic coupling that targets microbial life processes and host tissue function. The drug engages two separate mechanistic domains—microbial control and epithelial reinforcement—which converge to influence a more stable ocular environment. By simultaneously restricting bacterial proliferation and transcriptionally influencing host tissue maintenance, the overall physiological effect involves coordinated modulation of both microbial growth and epithelial barrier function.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Overview

Isee is an ophthalmic solution intended for topical application to the eye. Proper administration is essential to ensure the solution is delivered effectively to the ocular surface.

Preparation

Before using the solution, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you wear contact lenses, they should be removed prior to application. You may reinsert your contact lenses after a specific period has passed following the administration, as advised by your healthcare provider.

Application Technique

To apply the drops, follow these general steps:

  1. Tilt your head back slightly and look upward.
  2. Gently pull down the lower eyelid with one finger to create a small pocket.
  3. Hold the dropper bottle above the eye, being careful not to let the tip touch the eye, eyelids, fingers, or any other surface to maintain the sterility of the solution.
  4. Squeeze the bottle gently to release the prescribed number of drops into the pocket formed by the lower eyelid.
  5. Close your eye gently. Do not rub the eye.
  6. Apply light pressure to the inside corner of the eye (near the nose) for approximately one to two minutes. This helps prevent the liquid from draining into the tear duct.

Handling and Storage

Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Store the medication at the temperature specified on the product packaging, away from direct light and moisture. To prevent contamination, ensure the dropper tip does not come into contact with any external surfaces. If the solution changes color or becomes cloudy, it should not be used.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of Studies for Isee

Evidence for Use in Acute Bacterial Conjunctivitis

The research on Isee's primary antibiotic component was evaluated in studies that examined acute bacterial conjunctivitis (often called "pink eye"), a condition presenting with acute, episodic manifestations. The evidence is largely derived from short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews. These studies primarily monitored and measured outcomes related to physical discomfort, such as redness, discharge, and the gritty feeling, alongside microbiological outcomes concerning the presence of bacteria. The research explored short-term symptom changes over defined time intervals, typically the first five to ten days, in populations presenting with these acute episodes.

Studies comparing the antibiotic component to placebo or other anti-infective agents reported measurements of both clinical and microbiological outcomes, with findings describe patterns observed in the studies over the short follow-up period. Research highlights changes measured during the study period, but also notes that many cases of bacterial conjunctivitis may resolve spontaneously without intervention.

Evidence for Use in Microbial Keratitis (Corneal Infection)

Research for the antibiotic component was evaluated in the context of microbial keratitis, a corneal infection affecting a functionally critical area. The available research mainly includes non-randomized clinical studies and retrospective case series rather than placebo-controlled trials. These studies primarily monitored and measured outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level, such as changes in visual acuity, and outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, such as the status of the corneal ulcer and the rate of complication.

The Supportive Role of Vitamin A in Epithelial Health

The inclusion of Vitamin A in this formulation was studied for its established properties related to ocular surface health. The evidence here is rooted in basic science research and observational settings evaluating daily-life functioning related to epithelial integrity. Studies have explored outcomes capturing phases of heightened symptom activity. They have also monitored cellular markers of epithelial regeneration and healing rates following injury. Findings describe patterns observed in nutritional and biological studies, which contributes to understanding the role in maintaining the physical barrier of the eye.

What is Still Uncertain About Isee Research

Comparative evidence is lacking to establish the specific effect of the fixed Vitamin A component on acute clinical outcomes when compared directly to the antibiotic component alone. Additionally, evidence quality varies across studies, particularly for the more severe indication of microbial keratitis, where study designs are often non-randomized. Long-term effects are not fully established, and research focusing on recurrence beyond the immediate post-treatment follow-up period is still emerging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Isee (FAQ)


Q: Is Isee an antibiotic, and if so, what kind?

A: Yes, Isee contains Chloramphenicol, which is classified in regulatory documents as a synthetic broad-spectrum antibiotic. The compound's action is described as bacteriostatic, meaning it works by restricting the bacteria's ability to reproduce. This is the mechanism intended to control various susceptible bacteria.


Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Isee?

A: Official patient information generally advises that if a dose is missed, it should be applied as soon as it is remembered. However, if the time for the next scheduled dose is near, the official guidance is to skip the missed dose and resume the normal dosing schedule. Product labeling specifies that two doses should not be used together to compensate for a missed dose.


Q: Is Isee safe to use for a child under the age of 2?

A: While the medicine is typically used for children aged 2 years and over, use in children under the age of 2 is considered under specific circumstances. The product information states that it is only to be used when prescribed by a doctor or other qualified prescriber. This caution is related to the potential need for dosage adjustments and close clinical supervision for young infants.


Q: What are the signs of the serious side effect, aplastic anaemia, I should look out for?

A: Regulatory labeling for the medicine's antibiotic component, Chloramphenicol, describes symptoms associated with serious blood disorders like aplastic anaemia. These symptoms include general feelings of unusual tiredness or weakness, the development of fever or a sore throat, or noticing unusual bleeding or bruising. Regulatory documents note that these symptoms can occur even weeks or months after the treatment course has ended.


Q: Can I drive or operate machinery after using Isee?

A: The use of the ophthalmic solution or ointment may cause temporary blurred vision or a mild stinging sensation immediately after application. Product information advises that individuals should avoid driving or operating machinery until their vision has fully cleared and they feel comfortable to do so.


Q: What are the signs that my eye infection is getting better or worse while using Isee?

A: Regulatory guidance specifies that medical advice should be sought if symptoms do not improve within 48 hours of starting treatment with Isee. Advice is also given to seek professional consultation if symptoms worsen at any point. The treatment duration is typically restricted, generally not exceeding 5 days without consulting a doctor.


Q: What is the best way to clean the eye before applying the Isee ointment or solution?

A: Instructions for application recommend washing hands thoroughly before applying the medicine. If there is noticeable discharge or 'crusting' around the eye, it is generally advised to bathe the eye with clean, cool water to remove it before application. This step is generally suggested as part of the overall application hygiene.

How should Isee be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Isee?

The storage and disposal instructions for Isee (Chloramphenicol/Vitamin A Ophthalmic) are strictly defined in official regulatory labeling to maintain product stability and sterility.


Storage and Protection

Condition Regulatory Requirement
Temperature Store below 25°C (77°F); keep from freezing.
Container Rule Store in the original container and keep the container tightly closed.
Environmental Protect the medicine from light.
Child Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Stability and Disposal

The product's stability is time-limited once opened. The medicine must be discarded 28 days after first opening the container, or immediately after the treatment course is finished. Disposal of any unused or expired product must be in accordance with local regulations and must not be disposed of via household wastewater.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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