🍽️ thiamphenicol (antibiotic)

Antibacterial Activity: Thiamphenicol exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the bacterial ribosome, similar to chloramphenicol.

Indications: Thiamphenicol is used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections (such as pneumonia and bronchitis), urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, eye infections, ear infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections.

Dosage Forms: Thiamphenicol is available in various dosage forms, including oral tablets, capsules, and suspensions, as well as topical formulations for skin and eye infections.

Alternative to Chloramphenicol: Thiamphenicol is structurally related to chloramphenicol but lacks the potential for causing aplastic anemia, which is a rare but serious adverse effect associated with chloramphenicol use. Therefore, thiamphenicol may be considered as an alternative to chloramphenicol in cases where chloramphenicol is contraindicated or not tolerated.

Side Effects: Common side effects of thiamphenicol may include gastrointestinal symptoms (such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain), allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, and swelling), and hematologic abnormalities (such as reversible bone marrow suppression and transient leukopenia).

Bone Marrow Suppression: Thiamphenicol, like chloramphenicol, has the potential to cause bone marrow suppression, including reversible suppression of erythropoiesis (resulting in anemia), leukopoiesis (resulting in leukopenia), and thrombopoiesis (resulting in thrombocytopenia). Regular monitoring of blood cell counts is recommended during thiamphenicol therapy.

Pregnancy and Lactation: Thiamphenicol should be used with caution during pregnancy and lactation, as its safety profile in these populations has not been well established. The potential benefits of thiamphenicol therapy should be weighed against the potential risks to the fetus or infant.

Children and Elderly: Thiamphenicol is generally not recommended for use in children under certain ages or in elderly individuals due to the risk of bone marrow suppression and other adverse effects.

Renal and Hepatic Impairment: Dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, as thiamphenicol is primarily eliminated by the kidneys and liver.

Drug Interactions: Thiamphenicol may interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, antidiabetic agents, and certain anticonvulsants, leading to altered drug levels and potential toxicity or decreased efficacy.