METAMYCIN 0.5% EYE DROPS
CHLORAMPHENICAL 0.5% W/V
What it does
Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.
Commonly used for: bacterial infections, eye infections (including conjunctivitis), typhoid fever
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:11:50 · updated 2026-07-20 08:55:18
About this medicine
Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.
What it treats
- bacterial infections
- eye infections (including conjunctivitis)
- typhoid fever
How it works
It kills or stops the growth of bacteria by interfering with their ability to produce proteins.
Who it's for
It is used for people of all ages who have specific bacterial infections.
Cautions
- • Can cause serious side effects, including blood disorders.
- • Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: chloramphenical
Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is effective against a variety of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It was originally derived from the bacterium Streptomyces venezuelae and is known for its ability to penetrate tissues and reach therapeutic concentrations in various body fluids, including the central nervous system. Chloramphenicol is primarily used in serious infections, especially those caused by organisms resistant to other antibiotics. Due to its potential to cause severe side effects, particularly bone marrow suppression, its use is often restricted to specific situations.
Indications
- Bacterial meningitis
- Typhoid fever
- Severe rickettsial infections
- Infections caused by anaerobic bacteria
- Chlamydia infections
- Bacterial conjunctivitis
Dosage
Children: Refer to
Adults: Refer to specific guidelines as doses can vary based on infection severity and patient response.
Mechanism of action
Chloramphenicol exerts its antibacterial effect by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, blocking the peptidyl transferase activity and preventing the formation of peptide bonds during protein synthesis. This action halts bacterial growth and replication, making chloramphenicol bacteriostatic.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamics of chloramphenicol involve its ability to inhibit bacterial growth through the disruption of protein synthesis. Its bacteriostatic effect is particularly effective against a wide range of bacteria, including both aerobic and anaerobic organisms. The drug shows a time-dependent killing effect and has a significant post-antibiotic effect, meaning that its efficacy can continue even after serum levels have fallen below the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC).
Pharmacokinetics
Chloramphenicol is well absorbed orally and can also be administered intravenously. It is widely distributed throughout the body, crossing the blood-brain barrier and reaching therapeutic levels in the central nervous system. The drug undergoes hepatic metabolism, with a considerable portion being conjugated to glucuronic acid. Its elimination half-life ranges from 1 to 3 hours in healthy adults, but can be prolonged in individuals with liver impairment or in newborns due to immature metabolic pathways. Renal excretion is a minor route of elimination, as most of the drug is metabolized.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol or any of its components
- History of bone marrow suppression or aplastic anemia
- Newborns and premature infants due to the risk of 'gray baby syndrome'
Adverse effects
- Aplastic anemia
- Bone marrow suppression
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rash, pruritus)
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Superinfection due to opportunistic pathogens
Interactions
- May interact with drugs that affect bone marrow function
- Caution with anticoagulants (risk of increased bleeding)
- May enhance the effects of certain antidepressants
- Potentially increases the effects of drugs metabolized by the liver
Precautions
- Monitor blood counts during prolonged therapy
- Use with caution in patients with liver disease
- Assess renal function prior to use
- Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed due to potential risks
Pregnancy
Chloramphenicol should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It can cross the placenta and may pose risks such as fetal exposure leading to potential adverse effects.
Breast-feeding
Chloramphenicol is excreted in breast milk and may affect the nursing infant. Caution is advised when administering to breastfeeding mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral capsules
- Oral suspension
- Injection solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.