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Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Chloromycetin, Kemicetine
Chloramphenicol is a bacteriostatic antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit. It is effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including some anaerobic organisms. Due to its potential for serious side effects, its use is generally restricted to life-threatening infections where safer alternatives are unavailable.
Used for serious bacterial infections when less toxic alternatives are ineffective.
Chloramphenicol can cause serious and fatal blood dyscrasias, including aplastic anemia, which is often irreversible. It should not be used in infections that can be treated with less potentially dangerous agents. Complete blood counts should be done frequently during therapy.
Outcome:
Increased bleeding risk
Mechanism:
Inhibition of warfarin metabolism
Outcome:
May increase risk of chloramphenicol toxicity
Mechanism:
May affect chloramphenicol metabolism
Outcome:
Slightly reduced chloramphenicol absorption
Mechanism:
Altered gastric pH
Most likely new formulation: Liposomal chloramphenicol for improved delivery and reduced toxicity (2025, 60% confidence)
Based on decreasing usage trends and safety concerns, there is a 20% likelihood of further restrictions on chloramphenicol use in the next 5 years.
Antibiotic
Amphenicol