Antibiotic
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Chloramphenicol palmitate is an antibiotic that works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying in your body. It is a special form of chloramphenicol designed to be taken by mouth, usually as a suspension (liquid), making it easier to swallow, especially for children.
Binds to the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting peptide bond formation and halting protein synthesis in susceptible bacteria. This bacteriostatic action is effective against a broad spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, including those resistant to other antibiotics.
Typhoid fever, serious bacterial infections, bacterial meningitis (brain infection), bacterial eye infections, severe chest infections that other antibiotics cannot treat
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Is Chloramphenicol safe to take with another drug?
Check with multiple drugs →Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of this antibiotic even if you feel better, as stopping early can make the infection come back stronger and harder to treat. Do not buy chloramphenicol from roadside vendors or unregistered shops, as counterfeit drugs are dangerous. This is a powerful antibiotic reserved for serious infections; do not share it with others or use it for minor ailments like common cold.
Chloramphenicol can increase the blood-thinning effect of warfarin, increasing your risk of bleeding. It can reduce the effectiveness of iron supplements and vitamin B12, so space them apart. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug as it can cause nausea, vomiting, and increase side effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Chloramphenicol with your other drugs?
Chloramphenicol palmitate is NOT safe during pregnancy (especially near delivery) or while breastfeeding, as it can harm the baby. Do not use it unless your doctor says the benefit clearly outweighs the risk.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigeria can be very hot, so do not leave it in your car or near a window. Keep the bottle tightly closed and away from moisture. Always keep it out of the reach of children. Once opened, check the label for how long the suspension lasts and discard any leftover after the recommended period.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.