Chloramphenicol capsules: how to take it safely
Chloromycetin
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
A strong antibiotic used only for serious infections, such as typhoid, when safer antibiotics cannot be used.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow with water.
- Take it for the exact number of days prescribed.
When to take it
Take it every 6 hours, as prescribed.
Take it with
On an empty stomach if possible.
What to avoid
- Using it for long periods or repeated courses.
- Pregnancy near delivery, and newborn babies.
- Alcohol.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems or have had blood problems.
Possible side effects
Nausea, diarrhoea, mouth soreness.
Get help if
Sore throat, fever, unusual bruising or bleeding, pale skin or severe tiredness: get urgent help. These can be signs of a serious blood problem.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.