Biophenicol Syrup (Chloramphenicol 125 mg per 5 mL): Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Fever, sore throat, or mouth ulcers that develop during treatment
- Unusual bleeding, such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, blood in urine or stool, or easy bruising
- Severe tiredness, pale skin, or shortness of breath
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain
- Numbness, tingling, burning, or weakness in the hands or feet
- Blurred vision, loss of vision, or eye pain
- New confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior
- In newborns: gray skin color, limpness, poor feeding, vomiting, or difficulty breathing
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is welmycin suspension used for?
This medicine is an oral syrup containing chloramphenicol 125 mg per 5 mL. It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used only for serious bacterial infections when safer antibiotics cannot be used, because it can cause rare but life-threatening blood disorders. It must be taken exactly as prescribed, and blood tests are often needed during treatment.
- Generic Name: Chloramphenicol (125mg)
- Manufacturer: Vostok & Wilcure Remedies
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 welmycin suspension के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोरैम्फेनिकॉल नामक एंटीबायोटिक का सिरप रूप है, जिसका उपयोग केवल गंभीर बैक्टीरियल संक्रमणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है, जब अन्य सुरक्षित एंटीबायोटिक्स काम नहीं करते या उपयुक्त नहीं होते। यह मेनिनजाइटिस, टाइफॉइड बुखार और कुछ गहरे संक्रमणों में डॉक्टर की देखरेख में दी जा सकती है। यह दवा सामान्य सर्दी-जुकाम, हल्के बुखार या वायरल संक्रमण के लिए नहीं है। इसके गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव हो सकते हैं, इसलिए इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना शुरू या बंद न करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा से मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, पेट में दर्द और स्वाद में बदलाव जैसे सामान्य दुष्प्रभाव हो सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में खून की कमी, हड्डी के मज्जे पर असर, एप्लास्टिक एनीमिया, गंभीर एलर्जी, नसों में झनझनाहट और नवजात शिशुओं में ग्रे बेबी सिंड्रोम शामिल हैं। अगर आपको असामान्य थकान, पीली त्वचा, आसानी से चोट लगना, खून बहना, बुखार या गले में खराश हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को केवल डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें और पूरा कोर्स पूरा करें। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के इसे खुद से न खरीदें और न ही किसी और को दें। इस दवा के साथ शराब न लें। अगर आपको लीवर या किडनी की बीमारी है, खून से जुड़ी समस्या है, या आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर को जरूर बताएं। इलाज के दौरान खून की जांच करानी पड़ सकती है। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।
💊 welmycin suspension Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Bacterial meningitis","description":"Used in selected patients with meningitis caused by susceptible bacteria, often when other antibiotics are not suitable or when the organism is confirmed to be sensitive to chloramphenicol.","evidence":"Well-established in specialist settings"},{"condition":"Typhoid fever","description":"May be used for typhoid fever caused by Salmonella typhi when susceptibility testing supports its use and safer options are not appropriate.","evidence":"Established but reserved due to safety concerns"},{"condition":"Serious systemic infections caused by susceptible organisms","description":"Used for certain deep-seated or bloodstream infections when the causative bacteria are confirmed to be susceptible and other antibiotics cannot be used.","evidence":"Established in selected cases"},{"condition":"Rickettsial infections","description":"May be considered for some rickettsial infections when standard treatments are not suitable, but this is not a first-line use in most guidelines.","evidence":"Limited and specialist-directed"},{"condition":"Anaerobic infections","description":"Can be used for certain anaerobic infections in selected patients, but safer alternatives are usually preferred.","evidence":"Established but rarely first-line"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Not established from the available information.","description":"Off-label uses are not established from the available information for this medicine.","evidence":"Not established from the available information."}]
Primary treatment for: Serious bacterial infections caused by susceptible organisms
Also treats: Bacterial meningitis, Typhoid fever, Rickettsial infections, Anaerobic infections, Certain deep tissue and bloodstream infections
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Chloramphenicol (125mg) |
| Brand Name | welmycin suspension |
| Manufacturer | Vostok & Wilcure Remedies |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | OTOLOGICALS |
| Action Class | Chloramphenicol |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store this medicine at room temperature, between 15°C and 30°C, in a dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed and do not freeze the syrup. Do not use it after the expiry date printed on the pack. Keep it out of reach of children. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life of this medicine is usually 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, but you should always check the expiry date printed on the bottle. Once opened, follow the instructions on the label or ask your pharmacist about how long the syrup can be used. Do not use the medicine if it has changed color, become cloudy, or shows any particles. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. Chloramphenicol is included in some international guidelines for specific infections, but recommendations vary by country and condition. Always follow local guidelines and your doctor's advice. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. In India, antibiotic use should follow the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) antimicrobial stewardship guidelines and local hospital policies. Chloramphenicol is generally reserved for specific serious infections. |
👨⚕️ 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 entering susceptible bacteria and binding reversibly to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome. This binding blocks the action of peptidyl transferase, which is the enzyme that forms peptide bonds between amino acids during protein synthesis. As a result, the bacteria cannot build new proteins, and their growth and multiplication are stopped. Because this medicine mainly stops bacterial growth rather than directly killing the bacteria, it is called bacteriostatic. The body's immune system then clears the bacteria that can no longer multiply. This medicine is active against a wide range of bacteria, including many gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, as well as some anaerobes, but resistance can develop, so susceptibility testing is important when possible.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take welmycin suspension
Strength: This medicine is an oral syrup containing chloramphenicol 125 mg in each 5 mL of the syrup. It is an immediate-release liquid formulation intended for oral use.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The adult dose of this medicine is not fixed and must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the type and severity of the infection, the susceptibility of the bacteria, your body weight, and your liver and kidney function. In general, oral chloramphenicol is given in divided doses through the day, but the exact amount and frequency depend on the clinical situation. Because of the serious risks, this medicine is usually reserved for specific infections and is often started in a hospital setting. Never adjust the dose on your own, and always complete the full course as prescribed unless your doctor tells you to stop. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing of this medicine is not established from the available information for this syrup in a general way. Doses in children depend on weight, age, liver function, and the specific infection being treated, and they must be determined by a pediatrician or specialist. Newborns and premature infants are at high risk of serious toxicity and should only receive this medicine under close specialist supervision. Do not give this medicine to a child without a doctor's prescription and clear dosing instructions. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially effects on the blood and bone marrow. Liver and kidney function often decline with age, which can affect how the medicine is cleared from the body. The dose may need to be adjusted by a clinician based on kidney and liver function, and blood counts should be monitored closely. Elderly patients should also be watched for confusion, weakness, or unusual bleeding or bruising. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with kidney impairment, the metabolites of this medicine can accumulate, and dose adjustments may be needed. The exact adjustment depends on how severe the kidney problem is and on the results of kidney function tests. This medicine should be used with caution in anyone with kidney disease, and monitoring of kidney function and blood counts is recommended. A qualified clinician should decide the dose and frequency. |
| Hepatic Impairment | The liver is the main organ that processes this medicine, so liver disease can cause the medicine to build up in the body and increase the risk of serious side effects. In patients with liver impairment, the dose may need to be reduced, and the dosing interval may need to be lengthened. Liver function tests should be checked before and during treatment. This medicine should only be used in patients with liver disease under close specialist supervision. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose of this medicine is not established from the available information for this syrup in a general way. The safe upper limit depends on the infection being treated, the patient's age, weight, liver and kidney function, and the treating doctor's judgment. Never exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor, and do not take extra doses to make up for missed ones. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of welmycin 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 | |
| Methotrexate | Major | |
| Sulfonylureas | Major | |
| Cyclosporine | Moderate | |
| Tacrolimus | Moderate | |
| Paracetamol | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Iron supplements | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Bone marrow suppressant drugs (for example, chemotherapy agents, methotrexate, azathioprine)
- Warfarin and other oral anticoagulants
- Phenytoin and other anticonvulsants
- Rifampicin
- Oral hypoglycemic agents (for example, sulfonylureas)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Paracetamol (acetaminophen)
- Cyclosporine
- Tacrolimus
- Vitamin K antagonists other than warfarin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of stomach irritation, nausea, and liver stress, and it may worsen the overall side effect burden. Since this medicine is processed by the liver, combining it with alcohol may put extra strain on the liver. It is best to avoid alcohol completely until the treatment course is finished and your doctor confirms it is safe.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known allergy or hypersensitivity to chloramphenicol or any component of this medicine","History of chloramphenicol-related bone marrow suppression or aplastic anemia","Use in newborns and premature infants unless directly supervised by a specialist","Mild, viral, or non-serious infections where safer antibiotics are appropriate","Use as a routine first-line antibiotic for common infections","Severe liver disease without specialist supervision","Pregnancy unless a specialist decides the benefits outweigh the risks","Breastfeeding unless a specialist advises otherwise"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine can cause rare but life-threatening blood disorders, including aplastic anemia. Blood tests are needed before and during treatment.","Do not use this medicine for mild infections, colds, or flu-like illnesses.","Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially blood thinners, diabetes medicines, and other antibiotics.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease, and dose adjustments may be needed.","Newborns and premature infants are at high risk of gray baby syndrome and should only receive this medicine under specialist care.","Stop the medicine and seek urgent care if you develop fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers, unusual bleeding, bruising, or pale skin.","This medicine may cause nerve damage with numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. Report these symptoms promptly.","Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they have similar symptoms.","Keep this medicine out of reach of children and store it as directed."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
This medicine passes into breast milk in small amounts. Because of the potential for serious side effects in a nursing infant, including effects on the blood and bone marrow, breastfeeding is generally not recommended while taking this medicine unless a specialist advises otherwise. If use is necessary, the baby should be monitored closely, and alternative feeding options may need to be discussed with the doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause severe bone marrow suppression, liver damage, and in newborns gray baby syndrome. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical care immediately. Do not try to make yourself vomit unless told to do so by a medical professional. Treatment is supportive and may include blood tests, monitoring of blood counts and liver function, and sometimes activated charcoal if the overdose was recent. There is no specific antidote, so close medical monitoring is essential. In newborns, exchange transfusion may be considered in severe cases.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember if it is less than half the time until your next dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. If you are unsure what to do, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. Try to take this medicine at the same times each day to keep steady levels in your body.
Additional Safety Advice
This medicine must only be taken exactly as prescribed by a qualified clinician, and the full course should be completed unless the doctor advises otherwise. Do not use this medicine for self-treatment of fever, cold, sore throat, or any infection that has not been evaluated by a doctor. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially blood thinners, diabetes medicines, and other antibiotics, because interactions can occur. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it can worsen stomach upset and liver stress. Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, blood disorders, or if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Blood tests may be required before and during treatment to check your blood counts and liver function. Stop the medicine and seek urgent medical help if you develop fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers, unusual bleeding or bruising, pale skin, severe tiredness, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face and throat. Keep this medicine out of reach of children and store it as directed on the label.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults are more likely to experience side effects from this medicine, especially blood disorders, liver problems, and nerve damage. Liver and kidney function often decline with age, which can cause the medicine to build up in the body. Blood counts, liver function, and kidney function should be monitored closely. The dose may need to be adjusted by a doctor. Elderly patients should also be watched for confusion, dizziness, and falls. Family members or caregivers should help monitor for any unusual symptoms and ensure that the medicine is taken exactly as prescribed.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine. This medicine can cross the placenta and may harm the developing baby, so it is generally avoided during pregnancy unless a specialist decides it is necessary for a serious infection. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, contact your doctor immediately. Do not start or stop this medicine on your own if you are trying to conceive or think you might be pregnant.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
If you have recently had surgery, tell your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking or have taken this medicine. This medicine can affect blood counts and liver function, which may influence your recovery and the medicines used during and after surgery. It may also interact with other medicines given after surgery, such as painkillers and blood thinners. Your doctor will decide whether to continue, adjust, or stop this medicine before or after surgery. Do not make changes on your own.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Before any dental procedure, tell your dentist that you are taking this medicine. This medicine can increase the risk of bleeding if you also take blood thinners, and it may interact with other medicines used during dental work. Your dentist may need to consult your doctor before performing certain procedures. Good oral hygiene is important, and you should report any mouth ulcers, bleeding gums, or unusual taste changes to your dentist and doctor.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
While taking this medicine, you may feel tired, weak, or dizzy, especially if you have a serious infection. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting until you feel fully recovered. If you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hands or feet, stop exercising and contact your doctor. Light activity such as short walks may be okay if you feel up to it, but always listen to your body and rest when needed.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can cause dizziness, confusion, tiredness, or blurred vision in some people, so you should not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. If your job involves operating machines or making important decisions, ask your doctor whether it is safe to work while taking this medicine. You may need to take time off if you have a serious infection or if you develop side effects. Always inform your employer or supervisor if you need to take sick leave, and follow your doctor's advice about rest and recovery.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine on your own. It should only be stopped when your doctor tells you to stop, usually after completing the full course or if a serious side effect occurs. If you develop signs of a blood disorder, severe allergic reaction, nerve damage, or liver problems, your doctor may stop the medicine immediately and change your treatment. If you feel better before the course is finished, still complete the full course unless your doctor advises otherwise. Always ask your doctor before stopping this medicine for any reason.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine increases the risk of serious blood disorders, including bone marrow suppression and aplastic anemia, which may not be reversible. It can also cause nerve damage with numbness or tingling, and it may affect the liver and kidneys. Regular blood tests and liver and kidney function tests are needed during prolonged treatment. This medicine is usually used for short courses only, and long-term use should be avoided unless a specialist decides it is absolutely necessary. If you notice any unusual symptoms during or after treatment, report them to your doctor promptly.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Depending on the infection and susceptibility results, doctors may choose safer antibiotics such as cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, or macrolides instead of this medicine.
Evidence: Well-establishedRest, fluids, and fever control with appropriate medicines can help while the infection is being treated.
Evidence: Well-establishedVaccines against certain bacteria, such as typhoid and pneumococcal vaccines, can help prevent some infections that might otherwise require antibiotics.
Evidence: Well-established for prevention💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no specific vaccine interactions established for this medicine. However, if you are due for any vaccines, tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine. In general, antibiotics do not interfere with most vaccines, but your doctor will decide the best timing based on your overall health and the type of vaccine. Do not skip recommended vaccines because of this medicine without discussing it with your doctor.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze the syrup or store it in extreme heat
✅ DO
Keep the bottle tightly closed and in its original carton
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer the syrup to another container
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen stove
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
If you are traveling while taking this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly visible. Bring a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining why you need this medicine, especially for international travel. Keep the syrup in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and do not leave it in a hot car. If you are crossing time zones, ask your doctor how to adjust your dosing schedule so that you take the medicine at evenly spaced intervals. Check the customs rules of your destination country for restrictions on carrying antibiotics. Always carry enough medicine for your entire trip and a little extra in case of delays.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Some improvement may be seen within 24 to 48 hours, but it can take longer depending on the infection. It is important to complete the full course as prescribed, even if you feel better early.
A: No. This medicine is not for viral infections like the common cold or flu. It is reserved for serious bacterial infections and must only be used when prescribed by a doctor.
A: The most serious side effects are blood disorders, including bone marrow suppression and aplastic anemia, which can be life-threatening. Other serious effects include severe allergic reactions, nerve damage, and gray baby syndrome in newborns.
A: Yes. Blood tests are usually needed before and during treatment to check your blood counts and to detect any early signs of bone marrow suppression.
A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, taking it with a small meal or milk may help, but follow your doctor's instructions.
A: If you remember within half the time until your next dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
A: This medicine is generally avoided during pregnancy unless a specialist decides it is necessary for a serious infection. It can cross the placenta and may harm the baby. Discuss all options with your doctor.
A: No. You should complete the full course as prescribed unless your doctor tells you to stop. Stopping early can lead to treatment failure and antibiotic resistance.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for welmycin suspension
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
Simercetin 125mg InjectionBiomedica International ₹11.25 57.1% CHEAPER
-
elichlor syrupElite Pharma Pvt Ltd ₹26.25 SAME PRICE
-
qclor 125mg suspensionAnant Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹27.19 3.6% COSTLIER
-
actimycetin suspensionMedipol Pharmaceuticals India Pvt Ltd ₹28.13 7.2% COSTLIER
-
kidopalm 125mg syrupV.S. Healthcare Ltd ₹30.00 14.3% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Chloramphenicol is a safe antibiotic for common cold and fever.
Fact: This medicine is not for common colds, flu, or mild infections. It is reserved for serious bacterial infections because of its serious side effects. - Myth: You can stop taking this medicine as soon as you feel better.
Fact: You should complete the full course as prescribed unless your doctor tells you to stop. Stopping early can lead to treatment failure and resistance. - Myth: Chloramphenicol is safe for newborns.
Fact: Newborns are at high risk of a serious condition called gray baby syndrome. This medicine should only be used in newborns under specialist supervision. - Myth: Blood tests are not needed while taking this medicine.
Fact: Regular blood tests are very important because this medicine can cause serious blood disorders. - Myth: This medicine can be shared with family members who have similar symptoms.
Fact: Never share this medicine. It is prescribed for a specific person and condition, and sharing can cause harm.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Chloramphenicol oral syrup 125 mg per 5 mL
Brand Alternatives
- Biophenicol syrup