Common Use

Chloramphenicol is one of the first natural antimicrobial medications, developed in the late 1940s. Over time, many bacteria have developed resistance to it. Due to its severe side effects, its use is now limited. It is primarily prescribed for:

• Meningitis
• Rickettsial diseases
• Salmonellosis
• Anaerobic infections

Mechanism of Action

Chloramphenicol works by blocking bacterial protein synthesis in ribosomes, making it bacteriostatic. At high concentrations, it can be bactericidal against pneumococci, meningococci, and H. influenzae.

Common applications include:

• Bacterial eye infections (local application)
• Bacterial meningitis
• Brain abscess
• Typhoid fever
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Plague (as a secondary treatment)
• Intra-abdominal and pelvic infections
• Gas gangrene

Dosage and Directions

Follow these guidelines when taking Chloramphenicol:

• Do not use if safer alternatives are available.
• Take exactly as prescribed without missing doses.
• Maintain equal time intervals between doses.
• Avoid repeated treatment with the same medication.
• Take tablets with a full glass of water.
• Follow instructions carefully for liquid/local use.

Precautions

Before taking Chloramphenicol, inform your doctor about:

• Any existing medical conditions.
• History of allergies, especially to antibiotics.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to the drug.
• Pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding.

Possible Side Effects

Rare but serious side effects may include:

• Severe blood disorders (bone marrow hypoplasia, aplastic anemia).
• Intestinal disorders (from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis).
• Gray baby syndrome in neonates (hypothermia, cyanosis, circulatory collapse).

Regular blood monitoring is necessary during treatment.

Drug Interactions

Chloramphenicol may interact with:

• Oral diabetes medications (increased effect and excretion time).
• Erythromycin or lincosamides (not recommended for co-administration).
• Iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 supplements (reduced effectiveness).

Missed Dose

• Never double the dose.
• Skip the missed dose if near the next scheduled dose.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include:

• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Persistent sore throat or fever
• Severe fatigue
• Mental confusion or depression
• Bloody stools with cramping

Seek immediate medical help if overdose is suspected.

Storage

• Store at 59-77°F (15-25°C), away from light and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• If refrigerated, do not freeze.

Disclaimer

This information is for general purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before use. We are not liable for any consequences of self-treatment or misinterpretation of this information.