Chloromycetin

chloramphenicol

Brand(s):

• Paraxin

Manufacturer:

• Abbott Laboratories

Disease(s):

• Infections

Known as:

• Ak-Chlor / Chloromycetin / Chloroptic

Chloramphenicol Capsules: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Chloramphenicol?

Chloramphenicol is a powerful antibiotic, also known as an anti-infective. It's used to fight off serious bacterial infections in various parts of the body, including the brain, lungs, and blood. It's a serious medication and should only be used under the strict supervision of a doctor.

Important Information for Your Doctor

Before starting chloramphenicol, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history. This includes any of the following conditions:

• Anemia or other blood disorders
• Dental problems (this is important because chloramphenicol can affect blood cell production, influencing healing after dental procedures)
• Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Other chronic illnesses
• Porphyria
• Allergies to chloramphenicol, other antibiotics, or preservatives
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding (Chloramphenicol can pass into breast milk)

This information helps your doctor determine if chloramphenicol is safe and effective for you and to adjust the dosage as needed.

How to Take Chloramphenicol Capsules

Chloramphenicol capsules are taken orally. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully regarding dosage and frequency. Generally, this involves taking the capsules at regular intervals throughout the day and night (often every 6 hours). Always take them with a full glass of water. It's best to take them 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, as food can reduce their effectiveness.

Never exceed the prescribed dosage. Complete the entire course of treatment, even if you start feeling better. Stopping early can lead to treatment failure and the development of antibiotic resistance. Do not discontinue use without consulting your doctor.

Children require special consideration. Consult your pediatrician before administering chloramphenicol to a child.

Overdosage: In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting a poison control center or emergency room.

Important: This medication is for your personal use only. Do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take the next one as scheduled. Never double the dose.

Potential Drug Interactions

Chloramphenicol can interact with other medications. It's essential to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including:

• Other antibiotics
• B vitamins
• Chlorpropamide
• Doxercalciferol
• Entacapone
• Iron supplements
• Oral contraceptives (birth control pills)
• Paricalcitol
• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin
• Ramelteon
• Rifampin
• Tolbutamide
• Warfarin

This also includes over-the-counter medications, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs. These substances can affect how chloramphenicol works in your body. Always consult your doctor before starting or stopping any medication.

Monitoring While Taking Chloramphenicol

If your symptoms haven't improved after a few days of treatment, contact your doctor. Long-term use requires regular blood tests to monitor your blood cell counts.

Important Note on Blood Problems: Chloramphenicol can impact blood cell production, potentially slowing healing and increasing infection risk. This is especially relevant for dental procedures. Practice meticulous oral hygiene to minimize the risk of gum or tooth damage.

Diabetics: Chloramphenicol can interfere with urine sugar tests, potentially leading to false-positive results. Discuss this with your doctor before altering your diet or diabetes medication.

Possible Side Effects

Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include:

• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Fever or chills, sore throat
• Mouth sores
• Unusual weakness or tiredness
• Skin rash or itching
• Confusion
• Blurred vision
• Gray baby syndrome (rare but serious, characterized by blue-gray skin color, low body temperature, irregular breathing, and abdominal distension. This is particularly concerning in infants).

Children under 2 are at a higher risk for 'gray baby' syndrome. Symptoms include: refusal to eat, swollen stomach, paleness and blue or gray skin color, limpness, and difficulty breathing. This can be life-threatening. If any of these symptoms appear, stop giving the medication and seek immediate medical help.

Minor side effects may include:

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea

This list may not be exhaustive. Report any unusual side effects to your doctor.

Storage

Keep chloramphenicol out of reach of children, preferably in a child-resistant container. Store at room temperature below 30°C (86°F). Protect from moisture. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.