Chloramphenicol Capsules

Health and Nutrition > Medicines > C



How does it work?

Chloramphenicol is a powerful antibiotic with the ability to kill a wide variety of bacteria. It interferes with the production of proteins that the bacteria need to multiply and divide. This inhibits the ability of the bacteria to grow (bacteriostatic) and therefore stops the spread of the infection. Chloramphenicol has the potential to cause serious side effects when given by mouth or injection, therefore its use is reserved for life threatening infections.

What is it used for?

- Haemophilus influenzae infection
- Severe infections
- Typhoid

Warning!

- It is recommended that regular blood tests are performed to check levels of the blood components.
- The amount of the medicine in the blood of newborn babies should be checked to avoid adverse effects.

Use with caution in

- Avoid prolonged use
- Decreased kidney function
- Liver disease

Not to be used in

- Life long inherited blood diseases which can cause a variety of symptoms, including mental health problems (porphyrias)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
- Significant amounts of this medicine may pass into breast milk. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Label warnings

- Take at regular intervals. Complete the prescribed course unless otherwise directed.