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, current use is limited. It is primarily prescribed for:

• Meningitis
• Rickettsial diseases
• Salmonellosis
• Anaerobic infections

Its mechanism of action involves blocking bacterial protein synthesis in ribosomes, making it bacteriostatic. At high concentrations, it can also be bactericidal against pneumococci, meningococci, and H. influenzae.

Chloramphenicol is commonly administered for:

• Bacterial eye infections (topical use)
• Bacterial meningitis and brain abscess
• Generalized salmonellosis and typhoid fever
• Rickettsial infections (e.g., Q fever, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, typhus)
• Intra-abdominal and pelvic infections
• Gas gangrene
• Plague (as a secondary drug)

Dosage and Directions

• Only use if safer alternatives are unavailable.
• Take exactly as prescribed, at consistent intervals.
• Avoid repeated use to prevent resistance.
• Take tablets with a full glass of water.
• Follow instructions carefully for topical solutions.

Precautions

Inform your doctor about any medical conditions or allergies (especially to antibiotics) before taking Chloramphenicol.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to Chloramphenicol
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding

Possible Side Effects

Chloramphenicol may cause rare but severe side effects:

• Serious blood disorders (e.g., bone marrow hypoplasia, aplastic anemia) – regular blood monitoring required.
• Intestinal disorders from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis due to altered gut flora.
• Gray baby syndrome (in neonates) – hypothermia, cyanosis, flaccidity, and circulatory collapse (often fatal).

Drug Interactions

• Increases effects and excretion time of oral antidiabetic drugs.
• May produce false-positive glucose test results in diabetics.
• Avoid concurrent use with erythromycin or lincosamides.
• Reduces effectiveness of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 supplements.

Missed Dose

• Do not double the dose. Skip the missed dose if close to the next scheduled time.

Overdose

Symptoms may include:

• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Persistent sore throat, fever, unusual fatigue
• Headaches, mild depression, confusion
• Rashes, angioedema
• Watery or bloody stools (with or without cramps/fever) – seek immediate medical help.

Storage

• Store at 59–77°F (15–25°C) away from light, moisture, children, and pets.
• If refrigerated, avoid freezing.

Disclaimer

This information is general and does not cover all precautions, interactions, or uses. Do not self-diagnose or self-treat. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice. We disclaim liability for any reliance on this information or consequences of self-treatment.