Chloramphenicol, trade names Pentamycetin and Chloromycetin, is a broad spectrum antibiotic originally derived from Streptomyces venezuelae . It inhibits protein synthesis by binding the 50S ribosomal subunit to prevent bacterial growth. Bacterial resistance has occurred through decreased uptake or permeability, ribosomal mutation and inactivation by acetylation. Adverse side effects such as aplastic anemia, bone-marrow suppression or Gray syndrome in neonates and infants have resulted in limited use. However, due to ampicillin-resistant bacterial meningitis, there has been a renewed interest in the drug.

Chloramphenicol Pathway - New References