Antibiotic
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Chloramphenicol is a strong antibiotic that works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying in your body. It is one of the older antibiotics and is commonly used in Nigeria for serious infections, especially in eye drops, ear drops, and capsule forms.
Binds to the bacterial 50S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting peptide bond formation and halting protein synthesis in susceptible gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
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
For capsules: Adults usually take 500mg every 6 hours (that is, 4 times a day) on an empty stomach — about 1 hour before food or 2 hours after food. Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. For eye drops, put 1-2 drops into the affected eye every 2-6 hours as directed by your doctor. Always complete the full course your doctor prescribed, even if you feel better.
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 two doses at once to make up for it.
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 antibiotic course even if you feel better after a few days — stopping early can make the infection come back stronger. Do not buy chloramphenicol capsules from roadside sellers or open markets as fake drugs are common in Nigeria. Do not share your prescription with others, and report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or tiredness to your doctor immediately.
Chloramphenicol can increase the blood-thinning effect of warfarin, so tell your doctor if you take blood thinners. It can reduce the effectiveness of iron supplements and vitamin B12. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking chloramphenicol capsules as it can cause severe nausea and vomiting.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Chloramphenicol with your other drugs?
Chloramphenicol 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 there is absolutely no alternative.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in your car. Eye drops should be kept in a cool place and used within 28 days of opening. Keep all forms away from children.
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.
Dispensing Chloramphenicol?
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