Medicine Information

Chlorphen

Name: Chlorphen
Brand: Chlorphen
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Capsule250 mgAntibacterialATC: J01BA01

Generic Name

Chloramphenicol

Manufacturer

XYZ Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
chlorphen 250 mg capsule	৳ 2.00	৳ 20.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Chloramphenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It is used to treat serious bacterial infections, particularly when other antibiotics are ineffective or contraindicated, due to its potential for serious side effects.

Uses & Indications

Serious bacterial infections (e.g., typhoid fever, bacterial meningitis)

Rickettsial infections (e.g., Rocky Mountain spotted fever, typhus)

Intraocular infections when topical treatment is insufficient

Dosage

Adults

50 mg/kg/day in divided doses every 6 hours (typically 250-500 mg every 6 hours), not exceeding 4 g/day. Duration of treatment varies based on infection.

Elderly

Dosage adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients due to potential age-related decline in renal/hepatic function. Start with lower doses.

Renal_impairment

No significant dosage adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe impairment, monitor blood levels and adjust as needed.

How to Take

Oral administration. Take with a full glass of water. Can be taken with or without food.

Mechanism of Action

Chloramphenicol inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit, preventing peptide bond formation.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Clinical effects typically observed within hours to a day, depending on infection severity.

Excretion

Excreted mainly in the urine, predominantly as inactive metabolites, with a small proportion excreted unchanged.

Half life

Approximately 1.5 to 5 hours (longer in neonates and severe hepatic impairment).

Absorption

Rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1-3 hours.

Metabolism

Primarily metabolized in the liver, mainly by glucuronidation.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol
Minor infections
Prophylactic use
Patients with bone marrow depression
Concurrent administration of other bone marrow depressing drugs

Drug Interactions

Bone marrow depressants

Increased risk of hematological toxicity.

Phenobarbital, Rifampicin

May decrease chloramphenicol levels due to increased metabolism.

Phenytoin, Warfarin, Sulfonylureas

Chloramphenicol may inhibit their metabolism, leading to increased levels and enhanced effects (e.g., increased anticoagulant effect).

Storage

Store below 30°C, in a cool and dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bone marrow depression (including aplastic anemia). Management is primarily supportive, including gastric lavage or activated charcoal if recent ingestion. Blood transfusions may be necessary for severe hematological toxicity.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Not recommended during late pregnancy due to risk of 'gray baby syndrome'. Excreted in breast milk; advise against breastfeeding during treatment or use an alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 capsules/strip100 capsules/box

Shelf Life

24-36 months

Availability

Pharmacies, hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)

Patent Status

Generic, patent expired

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical data supporting efficacy and safety exists from historical and ongoing studies, especially for its use in severe infections.

Lab Monitoring

Complete Blood Count (CBC) including reticulocyte count (before and every 2-3 days during treatment)
Liver function tests (periodically)
Renal function tests (periodically)

Doctor Notes

Chloramphenicol should be reserved for serious infections where less toxic alternatives are ineffective or contraindicated.
Monitor CBC frequently during therapy, discontinue immediately if reticulocytopenia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, or anemia occurs.
Avoid in neonates and pregnant women nearing term due to gray baby syndrome risk.

Patient Guidelines

Take the full course of medicine as prescribed, even if you feel better.
Do not share this medicine with others.
Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, fever, sore throat, or fatigue to your doctor immediately.

Missed Dose Advice

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.