Drug Name

Chloromycetin

Drug Uses

Chloromycetin (Chloramphenicol) is used to treat serious infections in different parts of the body. It is sometimes given with other antibiotics. However, Chloromycetin should not be used for colds, flu, other virus infections, sore throats or other minor infections, or to prevent infections.

How to use

Use Chloromycetin as directed by your doctor.

• Take Chloromycetin by mouth with food.
• If you have trouble swallowing the tablet whole, it may be crushed or chewed with a little water.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Chloromycetin is an antibiotic. It works by killing or slowing the growth of sensitive bacteria.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Chloromycetin and are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Chloromycetin at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep in a tight, light-resistant container. Keep Chloromycetin out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Chloromycetin if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Chloromycetin.

• Mild diarrhea is common with antibiotic use. However, a more serious form of diarrhea (pseudomembranous colitis) may rarely occur. This may develop while you use the antibiotic or within several months after you stop using it. Contact your doctor right away if stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools occur. Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.
• Be sure to use Chloromycetin for the full course of treatment. If you do not, the medicine may not clear up your infection completely. The bacteria could also become less sensitive to this or other medicines. This could make the infection harder to treat in the future.
• Long-term or repeated use of Chloromycetin may cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. Your medicine may need to be changed to treat this.
• Lab tests, including liver function, kidney function, and complete blood cell counts, may be performed while you use Chloromycetin. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Chloromycetin while you are pregnant. Erythromycin is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Chloromycetin, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• diarrhea; loss of appetite; nausea; stomach pain; vomiting.

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bloody stools; hearing changes; irregular heartbeat; red, swollen, or blistered skin; severe diarrhea; severe stomach pain or cramps; yellowing of skin or eyes.

More Information

Chloromycetin is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.