Chloramphenicol: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
In accord with the concepts in the Warning Box and this INDICATIONS AND USAGE section, chloramphenicol must be used only in those serious infections for which less potentially dangerous drugs are ineffective or contraind
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label aed29594…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
No structured frequency data available in current labeling. Consult the official label.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
In accord with the concepts in the Warning Box and this INDICATIONS AND USAGE section, chloramphenicol must be used only in those serious infections for which less potentially dangerous drugs are ineffective or contraindicated. However, chloramphenicol may be chosen to initiate antibiotic therapy on the clinical impression that one of the conditions below is believed to be present; in vitro sensitivity tests should be performed concurrently so that the drug may be discontinued as soon as possible if less potentially dangerous agents are indicated by such tests. The decision to continue use of chloramphenicol rather than another antibiotic when both are suggested by in vitro studies to be effective against a specific pathogen should be based upon severity of the infection, susceptibility of the pathogen to the various antimicrobial drugs, efficacy of the various drugs in the infection, and the important additional concepts contained in the Warning Box above. • Acute infections caused by Salmonella typhi * It is not recommended for the routine treatment of the typhoid carrier state. • Serious infections caused by susceptible strains in accordance with the concepts expressed abo…
Conditions associated with Chloramphenicol in labeling
Cystic Fibrosis
A genetic disorder that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs, leadi...
Meningitis
Inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by infection. Can be life-threa...
Typhoid
Typhoid is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs....
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chloramphenicol used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Chloramphenicol?
Current labeling for this ingredient does not include a structured frequency table that we can reproduce. Review the official label linked below.
Does Chloramphenicol require lab monitoring?
Monitoring needs vary. Ask your healthcare provider whether any lab tests apply while taking Chloramphenicol.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.