Chloramphenicol

• Chloramphenicol is available by prescription only.

• Chloramphenicol is a broad spectrum antibiotic used for a variety of infections in pets.

• Chloramphenicol is usually a bacteriostatic agent, meaning it stops bacteria from reproducing but does not kill them.

• Chloramphenicol stops bacteria from synthesizing proteins.

• Chloramphenicol works against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria.

• Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

• When administering chloramphenicol, avoid direct contact with the drug, as it is toxic to humans.

• The use of chloramphenicol is prohibited in food animals.

• Use chloramphenicol with caution if your pet...

• is pregnant or nursing

• is taking any penicillin derivative

• is taking any drug that can cause myelosuppression

• Suffers from hematologic disorders

• Hepatic failure

• Renal failure

• Store at room temperature.

• Store protected from light and moisture.

• Give as directed by your veterinarian.

• Always follow the instructions printed on the prescription label.

• Avoid contact with chloramphenicol when administering your pet's prescription, as it is toxic in humans and could cause serious side effects.

• Complete the entire prescription, even if your pet appears to be improving, unless instructed otherwise by your veterinarian.

• In the case of a missed dose, give chloramphenicol as soon as you remember or at the next prescribed time. DO NOT GIVE A DOUBLE DOSE OF CHLORAMPHENICOL.

• Keep chloramphenicol out of reach of children and pets.

• Always complete antibiotics as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not stop giving chloramphenicol until you finish your prescription.

• Chloramphenicol may cause bone marrow toxicity. Bone marrow toxicity is reversible but should be treated immediately.

• Signs of bone marrow toxicity are...

• lymphocytopenia, or low lymphocyte count

• neutropenia, or low white blood cell count

• vacuolation, or formation of vacuoles in cells

• If you suspect that your pet has overdosed on chloramphenicol, contact your veterinarian immediately.