Chloramphenicol: Quick Facts and Practical Tips
Ever heard of chloramphenicol and wondered what it actually does? It’s an old‑school antibiotic that still pops up for serious infections when other drugs won’t work. Think of it as a backup plan for doctors dealing with hard‑to‑treat bugs.
When Do Doctors Choose Chloramphenicol?
In the UK, chloramphenicol is usually reserved for specific cases like:
- Severe meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae or Streptococcus pneumoniae
- Typhoid fever when resistance to first‑line meds is a problem
- Certain eye infections (as eye drops) where other drops aren’t effective
Because it can have serious side effects, doctors only prescribe it when the benefit outweighs the risk.
How to Take It Safely
Dosage depends on the infection and whether you’re taking tablets, capsules or an eye‑drop form. A typical adult dose for serious infections is 500 mg every 6 hours, taken with food to lessen stomach upset. Never split or double a dose just because you missed one – call your pharmacist for advice.
Watch out for these common side effects:
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
- Rare but serious blood‑related problems (like aplastic anaemia)
If you notice unusual bruising, persistent fever, or feel unusually weak, stop the drug and seek medical help right away.
Here are a few practical pointers to keep the treatment smooth:
- Complete the full course. Even if you feel better after a few days, finishing the prescribed length prevents resistance.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps your body clear the drug and reduces kidney strain.
- Check interactions. Tell your doctor about other meds, especially blood thinners, antacids, or theophylline, as they can change how chloramphenicol works.
For the eye‑drop version, apply the prescribed number of drops into the affected eye(s) and close the eyelid gently for a minute. Avoid touching the tip of the bottle to your eye or anything else – it keeps the solution sterile.
Lastly, keep a record of any side effects you experience. A simple notebook or phone note makes it easy to share accurate information with your GP or pharmacist.
Chloramphenicol isn’t the first choice for most infections, but knowing when it’s used and how to handle it can make a big difference if you ever need it. Stay informed, follow your doctor’s instructions, and you’ll minimize risks while getting the infection under control.
