Levomycetin is an artificially synthesized preparation identical to the natural antibiotic chloramphenicol. The use of this potent substance is effective in a number of diseases of a bacterial nature, however, its uncontrolled use is unacceptable. Since in combination with some drugs and under certain other conditions, chloramphenicol can have a pronounced toxic effect on the hematopoietic system, as well as kidney and liver function, it should be taken only as directed and under the constant supervision of a doctor.
Chloramphenicol is a yellowish-white crystalline, slightly soluble powder of bitter taste in water. The drug "Levomycetin", the use of which is possible in the form of tablets or capsules, is also available in the form of rectal suppositories, solutions, eye drops and ointments.
Chloramphenicol (tablets). Instructions for use
The effectiveness of the drug against many bacteria, rickettsia, spirochetes, and even against viruses that cause venereal lymphogranuloma, trachoma, psittacosis, and others has been proven. It acts on strains resistant to streptomycin, penicillin, sulfanilamides.
The drug "Levomycetin" (tablets), the instructions for which are attached without fail, is sold by prescription. Quickly absorbed from the digestive tract. Excreted in the urine. Instructions for use contain a list of diseases, recommended doses, the interval of administration and a description of possible complications or side effects of the drug on the human body.
How to take chloramphenicol
According to the doctor’s recommendations, topically, chloramphenicol is used as a liniment (ointment) to treat trachoma, furunculosis, pustular skin lesions, burn wounds, and cracks. Inside appoint "Levomycetinum" tablets (the instruction is attached). In the treatment of conjunctivitis and some other eye diseases, the use of a one percent ointment or 0.25% aqueous solution (eye drops) may be recommended.
Tablets or capsules are taken orally (if there is no nausea and vomiting) before meals or an hour after meals. In this case, a single dose for an adult patient is 0.25-0.5 g. The daily dose (2 g) of the drug “Levomycetin” (tablets) is prescribed by the instruction in parts, with an interval of 6 hours. In very severe cases (say, with peritonitis), a dose of up to 3 g per day is permissible, with constant monitoring of renal function and the state of the hematopoietic system, under the strict supervision of a doctor. With persistent vomiting, chloramphenicol suppositories are prescribed rectally, but the dose is increased one and a half times. The average course of treatment should be 8-10 days. In no case should you independently interrupt treatment without consulting a doctor. If no changes are observed from the hemopoietic system, an increase in the duration of the treatment course is possible.
Side effects and contraindications
The drug can cause the development of aplastic anemia, therefore, constant monitoring of the hematopoiesis system is necessary.
Adverse reactions to Levomycetinum (tablets) include: dyspeptic symptoms (vomiting, nausea, loose stools), skin rash, dermatitis, skin irritation in the anus. The use of chloramphenicol-containing drugs can suppress the intestinal microflora, cause the development of dysbiosis, secondary fungal infection. When applied topically, allergic reactions are possible.
The use of chloramphenicol is contraindicated in eczema, psoriasis, fungal skin diseases, inhibition of blood formation, and pregnancy. With great care, the drug is prescribed for diseases of the liver and kidneys. Levomycetin should not be prescribed in cases where other chemotherapeutic drugs are effective.