Kemicetine Succinate

What is it?

A chloramphenicol antibiotic available as a powder in vials for reconstitution and injection containing lg chloramphenicol (as sodium succinate).

Medical Uses

Serious, life-threatening infections including H. influenzae, meningitis and typhoid.

Dosage

Adults, lg by intravenous injection every 6 to 8 hours. Children, newborn babies, 25mg per kg of body weight each day; others, 50mg per kg of body weight daily. All given intravenously every 6 hours in divided doses.

Special Care

Patients with liver or kidney disease or damage. Haematology checks are necessary.

Avoid Use

Pregnancy, breastfeeding.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Hypoglycaemics, anticoagulants, phenytoin.

Known Side Effects

Gastro-intestinal upset, dry mouth, disturbance of vision, rash, Grey syndrome in babies. Drug causes serious blood changes such as aplastic anaemia and is reserved for use in conditions in which no effective alternative is available, and patient's life is at risk. Regular blood tests should be performed.