Chloramphenicol

What is it?

Composition

Chloramphenicol contains the main active ingredient - chloramphenicol, which provides its antibacterial action. This is a synthetic compound with a wide spectrum of activity. The drug also includes auxiliary components that depend on the form of release. For example, drops, tablets or ointments may contain various additives to improve stability and absorption.

• Chloramphenicol is the active ingredient.
• Stabilizers and preservatives - to extend shelf life.
• Fillers - to ensure ease of use (in tablets).
• Vegetable oils or petroleum jelly - the basis of ointments.

How to use?

The use of chloramphenicol depends on the form of release and the severity of the disease. The drug is available in the form of tablets, eye drops, ointments and injection solutions. Each form has its own rules of use, which are important to follow to achieve the maximum therapeutic effect.

1. Tablets: Take orally after meals with a sufficient amount of water. The dosage is determined by the doctor depending on the diagnosis and body weight.
2. Eye drops: Instill 1-2 drops into the conjunctival sac every 4-6 hours. The duration of the course is usually 5-7 days.
3. Ointments: Apply a thin layer to the affected area 1-2 times a day. Apply until the symptoms disappear completely.
4. Injection solutions: Use only in a hospital under the supervision of a doctor.

How does it work?

Chloramphenicol has a bacteriostatic mechanism of action, that is, it suppresses the reproduction of bacteria, but does not kill them directly. The main effect is achieved by blocking protein synthesis in bacterial cells. The drug binds to the ribosomes of microorganisms, preventing the formation of vital proteins, without which bacteria cannot exist.

A feature of chloramphenicol is its ability to penetrate into various tissues of the body, including hard-to-reach areas such as the brain and eye environments. This explains its effectiveness in infections of the central nervous system, eye infections and other serious diseases. Due to its broad spectrum of activity, the drug acts against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some atypical pathogens.

Indications

Chloramphenicol is used to treat infections caused by microorganisms sensitive to it. Its effectiveness and ability to penetrate hard-to-reach tissues make it popular in a variety of serious diseases. The main indications include bacterial infections where alternative antibiotics fail.

• Eye infections such as conjunctivitis and keratitis.
• Meningitis and other central nervous system infections.
• Severe bacterial respiratory infections, including pneumonia.
• Sepsis and blood infections.
• Infectious diseases of the skin and soft tissues.
• Typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever.

The drug is always prescribed taking into account the severity of the infection and the sensitivity of the pathogen, and its use requires strict medical supervision.

Contraindications

Despite the high efficiency of chloramphenicol, there are conditions in which its use is strictly contraindicated. This is due to the risk of serious side effects and toxicity of the drug under certain circumstances. Before starting treatment, it is important to exclude the presence of contraindications.

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to chloramphenicol or its components.
• Severe liver or kidney dysfunction.
• Suppression of hematopoiesis, including anemia, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Children under 2 years of age (except for vital indications).
• Porphyria and other rare hereditary blood diseases.

If at least one of the listed factors is present, the drug must be replaced with a safer alternative, which is always discussed with the attending physician.

Side effects

Chloramphenicol may be associated with side effects that range from mild to severe. These are due to its toxicity and the way it affects the body, especially with prolonged use or overdose. Therefore, it is important to monitor the patients condition throughout the course of treatment.

• Dyspeptic disorders: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.
• Allergic reactions: skin rash, itching, or swelling.
• Hematopoietic depression: anemia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia.
• Gray syndrome in newborns when used in young children.
• Neurological disorders: dizziness, headache, or confusion.
• Hepatotoxicity: liver dysfunction.

If any side effects occur, it is recommended to immediately consult a doctor to adjust the dosage or replace the drug. Changes in blood composition are considered especially dangerous and require careful monitoring.