Chloramphenicol Uses – Quick Guide

Ever wondered why doctors still write chloramphenicol on a prescription? It’s an old‑school antibiotic that still does a lot of good work. Whether you see it as eye drops, a cream, or a pill, chloramphenicol tackles bacteria that many newer drugs sometimes miss. Below you’ll find the most common ways it’s used, when it’s the right choice, and what to watch out for.

Topical and Eye Applications

One of the biggest reasons people hear about chloramphenicol is the eye drop. For bacterial conjunctivitis – the pink, itchy eye infection – a few drops three times a day can clear it up in a week. The drops work fast because they go straight to the site of infection, bypassing the need for a whole‑body dose.

Beyond eyes, chloramphenicol cream or ointment is popular for skin infections like impetigo or minor wounds that show pus. Apply a thin layer twice daily; the drug stops the bacteria from multiplying, letting the skin heal without scarring. Some dentists even use a chloramphenicol mouth rinse after oral surgery to keep the area clean.

Systemic Uses and Precautions

When the infection spreads deeper, doctors may give chloramphenicol by mouth or injection. It’s effective against serious bugs that cause typhoid fever, meningitis, and certain lung infections. The dose is weight‑based and usually taken every 6–8 hours. Because the drug can reach the bloodstream, it treats hard‑to‑reach infections that topicals can’t.

However, systemic use comes with a big warning: rare but serious bone‑marrow suppression. That’s why doctors order blood tests before starting therapy and monitor blood counts during treatment. If you notice unusual bruising, fatigue, or sore throat, call your doctor right away.

Resistance is another concern. Chloramphenicol should be reserved for cases where other antibiotics fail or aren’t suitable. Always finish the full course, even if you feel better, to lower the chance of resistant bacteria popping up.

In short, chloramphenicol is a versatile antibiotic: eye drops for quick relief, creams for skin bugs, and pills or shots for deep infections. Use it only under medical guidance, keep an eye on side effects, and you’ll get the most benefit from this reliable, if sometimes overlooked, drug.