Activemycetin Oral Suspension (Chloramphenicol 125mg/5mL): Complete Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Severe fatigue or weakness
- Sore throat with fever
- Pale skin or shortness of breath
- Swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe or persistent diarrhea
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Decreased urine output
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is actimycetin suspension used for?
This medicine is an oral antibiotic containing chloramphenicol 125 mg per 5 mL. It is used for serious bacterial infections like typhoid fever and meningitis when other antibiotics are not suitable. It works by stopping bacterial protein synthesis. It requires a prescription and close medical supervision due to rare but serious blood-related side effects.
- Generic Name: Chloramphenicol
- Manufacturer: Medipol Pharmaceuticals India Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 actimycetin suspension के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोरैम्फेनिकॉल 125 मिलीग्राम प्रति 5 मिलीलीटर युक्त एक मौखिक सस्पेंशन है, जिसका उपयोग गंभीर जीवाणु संक्रमणों जैसे टाइफाइड बुखार और मेनिनजाइटिस के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है, जब अन्य एंटीबायोटिक्स उपयुक्त न हों। यह बैक्टीरिया के प्रोटीन संश्लेषण को रोककर काम करती है। इसका उपयोग केवल डॉक्टर की सलाह पर ही करना चाहिए, क्योंकि इससे रक्त संबंधी गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव हो सकते हैं। सामान्य संक्रमणों, सर्दी-जुकाम या वायरल बीमारियों में इसका उपयोग नहीं करना चाहिए। गर्भवती महिलाओं, नवजात शिशुओं और स्तनपान कराने वाली माताओं को इसका सेवन नहीं करना चाहिए।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, पेट में परेशानी और स्वाद में बदलाव शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को सिरदर्द या हल्के दाने भी हो सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में अस्थि मज्जा का दमन, जिससे रक्त कोशिकाओं की संख्या कम हो सकती है, और दुर्लभ लेकिन गंभीर अप्लास्टिक एनीमिया शामिल है। अगर आपको असामान्य चोट, रक्तस्राव, थकान, गले में खराश, बुखार या लगातार दस्त महसूस हों, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का सेवन केवल योग्य डॉक्टर की देखरेख में ही करें। सर्दी-जुकाम जैसे सामान्य संक्रमणों के लिए इसका उपयोग न करें। दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें, भोजन के साथ या बिना, लेकिन भोजन के साथ लेने से पेट की परेशानी कम हो सकती है। पूरा कोर्स पूरा करें, भले ही आप बेहतर महसूस करें। इस दवा को किसी और के साथ साझा न करें। इस दवा के साथ शराब का सेवन न करें। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं, स्तनपान करा रही हैं, या आपको लीवर या किडनी की बीमारी है, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। नियमित रक्त परीक्षण की आवश्यकता हो सकती है।
💊 actimycetin suspension Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Typhoid fever","description":"Used to treat typhoid fever caused by Salmonella typhi when other antibiotics are not effective or not suitable.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Bacterial meningitis","description":"Used in combination with other antibiotics for certain types of bacterial meningitis, especially when penicillin cannot be used.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Eye infections","description":"Used topically for bacterial conjunctivitis, but the oral suspension is not for eye use.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Rickettsial infections","description":"Alternative treatment for Rocky Mountain spotted fever and other rickettsial diseases when tetracyclines are contraindicated.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Anaerobic infections","description":"Used for serious anaerobic infections when other options are not available.","evidence":"Moderate"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Melioidosis","description":"Sometimes used as part of combination therapy for melioidosis, though not a first-line agent.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Plague","description":"May be used as an alternative treatment for plague in certain situations.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Serious bacterial infections (e.g., typhoid fever, meningitis)
Also treats: Rickettsial infections, Anaerobic infections, Eye infections (topical use only)
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Chloramphenicol |
| Brand Name | Andrecin Eye Drop |
| Manufacturer | Medipol Pharmaceuticals India Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | OTOLOGICALS |
| Action Class | Chloramphenicol |
| Route of Administration | Oral (by mouth). Shake the suspension well before measuring the dose. Use the measuring cup or syringe provided with the medicine |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life is typically 24 months from the date of manufacture. After opening, use within the period specified on the label, usually within 14 days if stored at room temperature. Do not use after the expiry date. |
| WHO Guideline | Chloramphenicol is included in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for the treatment of bacterial meningitis and other serious infections, but it is reserved for specific situations due to safety concerns. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommends chloramphenicol for the treatment of typhoid fever in certain situations, but due to resistance and safety concerns, it is not a first-line agent. It should be used only when other options are not suitable. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by binding to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, which is the cell structure responsible for making proteins. By binding to this subunit, it blocks the action of an enzyme called peptidyl transferase, which is needed to form peptide bonds between amino acids. This stops the bacteria from building essential proteins, leading to halted growth and eventually bacterial death. Because it targets a structure found only in bacteria, it does not affect human cells, but it can still cause side effects in the body.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take actimycetin suspension
Strength: Oral suspension containing chloramphenicol 125 mg per 5 mL.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 50 to 100 mg per kg of body weight per day, divided into 4 doses every 6 hours. For serious infections, the dose may be up to 100 mg per kg per day. The exact dose and duration depend on the type and severity of the infection, your kidney and liver function, and your response to treatment. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Always follow your doctor's prescription exactly. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. This medicine is contraindicated in newborns and infants under 2 weeks of age due to the risk of gray baby syndrome. For older children, the dose is usually based on weight and must be determined by a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression. Dose adjustment may be needed based on liver and kidney function. Regular monitoring of blood counts is recommended. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with severe kidney impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. This medicine is partially removed by dialysis. Consult your doctor for dose adjustment based on your kidney function. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with liver disease, the metabolism of this medicine may be reduced, leading to higher blood levels and increased risk of side effects. Dose reduction may be necessary. Regular monitoring of liver function and blood counts is recommended. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose is 100 mg per kg of body weight, not to exceed 4 grams per day, unless otherwise directed by a doctor for severe infections. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of actimycetin suspension
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Phenytoin | Major | |
| Rifampicin | Major | |
| Chlorpropamide | Moderate | |
| Paracetamol | Moderate | |
| Cyclosporine | Moderate | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Iron supplements | Minor | |
| Alcohol | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Warfarin
- Phenytoin
- Rifampicin
- Oral hypoglycemics (e.g., chlorpropamide)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Paracetamol
- Cyclosporine
- Cimetidine
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver toxicity and stomach irritation, and may worsen side effects such as nausea and dizziness.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol or any component of the formulation","History of serious blood disorders such as aplastic anemia or bone marrow suppression","Use in newborns and infants under 2 weeks of age due to risk of gray baby syndrome","Late pregnancy (especially third trimester) due to risk to the fetus","Breastfeeding during treatment","Minor infections or viral illnesses where safer antibiotics are available"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine should be reserved for serious infections when other antibiotics are not suitable, due to the risk of rare but severe blood disorders.","Regular blood tests are essential to monitor for bone marrow suppression.","Avoid use in patients with liver or kidney disease unless benefits outweigh risks; dose adjustment may be needed.","Do not use for prolonged periods unless absolutely necessary.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.","Avoid alcohol during treatment.","Do not share this medicine with others.","Keep out of reach of children.","Shake the suspension well before each use.","Use a proper measuring device to ensure accurate dosing."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
This medicine passes into breast milk in small amounts. It may cause serious side effects in a nursing infant, such as bone marrow suppression. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medicine. Consult your doctor for alternative feeding options.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause severe bone marrow suppression, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to gray baby syndrome in infants. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include blood transfusions, monitoring of blood counts, and management of symptoms. There is no specific antidote.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified doctor. Do not use it for common infections like colds or flu, as it does not work against viruses. Take it exactly as prescribed, with or without food, but food may help reduce stomach upset. Complete the full course even if you feel better, to prevent the infection from returning. Do not share this medicine with anyone else. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it may increase the risk of liver problems. Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Regular blood tests may be needed to check your blood cell counts. Store the suspension in a cool, dry place, and shake well before each use. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for the next dose. Never double the dose.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are more prone to the side effects of this medicine, especially bone marrow suppression. They may also have reduced liver and kidney function, which can affect drug levels. Regular monitoring of blood counts, liver, and kidney function is recommended. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor for personalized dosing.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, due to the risk of serious harm to the fetus. If you are planning pregnancy, discuss alternative antibiotics with your doctor. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, contact your doctor immediately.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with other medications used during surgery. Your doctor may recommend stopping the medicine before surgery or adjusting the dose. Close monitoring may be needed during the perioperative period.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may increase the risk of bleeding or interact with other medications used in dentistry. Your dentist may recommend postponing non-urgent procedures until you complete the course. Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infections.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
While taking this medicine, you may feel tired or weak. Avoid strenuous exercise until you feel better. Light activities like walking are fine if you feel up to it. If you experience dizziness or fatigue, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause fatigue, dizziness, or nausea, which can affect your ability to work or drive. It is best to rest until you feel better. If your job involves operating machinery or driving, avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if you need time off to recover from the infection.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. You should complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better. If you experience serious side effects such as unusual bruising, bleeding, severe fatigue, or allergic reactions, stop the medicine and seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor may decide to stop the medicine if blood tests show significant bone marrow suppression or if the infection is not responding.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine can increase the risk of bone marrow suppression, which may lead to low blood cell counts and increased susceptibility to infections. Rarely, it can cause aplastic anemia, a serious condition where the bone marrow stops producing enough new blood cells. Regular blood tests are essential during prolonged therapy. If used for more than a few days, liver and kidney function should also be monitored. The risk of side effects increases with higher doses and longer duration of treatment.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
An alternative antibiotic for typhoid fever and other infections with a better safety profile.
Evidence: Well-establishedA cephalosporin antibiotic commonly used for serious infections like meningitis and typhoid.
Evidence: Well-establishedRest, hydration, and fever management can help while the infection resolves, but antibiotics are needed for bacterial infections.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine may reduce the effectiveness of live vaccines. Avoid receiving live vaccines while taking this medicine and for a short period after stopping. Inactivated vaccines are generally safe. Consult your doctor for specific advice regarding vaccination timing.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container with cap tightly closed
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Shake well before each use
❌ DON'T
Do not use if the suspension has changed color or has particles
✅ DO
Discard any unused portion after the specified period (usually 14 days)
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly visible. Bring a copy of your prescription and a doctor's note explaining why you need it, especially for international travel. Keep the suspension in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If traveling by air, pack it in your carry-on luggage to avoid temperature extremes in checked baggage. For time zone changes, adjust dosing times gradually under your doctor's guidance. Do not stop taking the medicine during travel unless advised by your doctor.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: You may start feeling better within 24 to 48 hours, but it is important to complete the full course as prescribed. The infection may take several days to fully clear.
A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
A: This medicine is not for newborns and should be used in older children only under a pediatrician's supervision. The dose is based on weight.
A: No, you must complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better, to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent resistance.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for actimycetin suspension
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
Simercetin 125mg InjectionBiomedica International ₹11.25 60% CHEAPER
-
elichlor syrupElite Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹26.25 6.7% CHEAPER
-
welmycin suspensionVostok & Wilcure Remedies ₹26.25 6.7% CHEAPER
-
qclor 125mg suspensionAnant Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹27.19 3.3% CHEAPER
-
kidopalm 125mg syrupV.S. Healthcare Ltd ₹30.00 6.6% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Chloramphenicol is a safe antibiotic for any infection.
Fact: Chloramphenicol is reserved for serious infections because it can cause rare but life-threatening blood disorders. It is not for common infections. - Myth: You can stop taking chloramphenicol once you feel better.
Fact: You must complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better, to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent resistance. - Myth: Chloramphenicol is safe during pregnancy.
Fact: Chloramphenicol should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as it can harm the fetus. - Myth: Chloramphenicol eye drops and oral suspension are the same.
Fact: They are different formulations for different uses. The oral suspension is for systemic infections, while eye drops are for eye infections only.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Chloramphenicol oral suspension
Brand Alternatives
- Activemycetin oral suspension