Drug interactions
Cefazolin + Chloramphenicol
Severity: Minor
Cefazolin and Chloramphenicol: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Chloramphenicol is bacteriostatic and may blunt the bactericidal activity of beta-lactams such as cefazolin. The clinical importance is uncertain and human evidence is limited. It matters mainly in severe infections.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cefazolin and Chloramphenicol have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Cefazolin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Chloramphenicol belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Bacteriostatic inhibition of protein synthesis may reduce the killing of actively dividing bacteria that beta-lactams depend on.
What to do
Avoid combining in serious infections where bactericidal therapy is essential, and choose a single suitable agent. Monitor clinical response if both are used.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Cefazolin
- Amikacin + Cefazolin Moderate
- Bcg vaccine live + Cefazolin Moderate
- Cefazolin + Cholera vaccine Moderate
- Cefazolin + Dexamethasone-tobramycin Moderate
- Cefazolin + Gentamicin Moderate
- Cefazolin + Kanamycin Moderate
Other interactions of Chloramphenicol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cefazolin with Chloramphenicol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Cefazolin and Chloramphenicol have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Chloramphenicol is bacteriostatic and may blunt the bactericidal activity of beta-lactams such as cefazolin. The clinical importance is uncertain and human evidence is limited. It matters mainly in severe infections.
How serious is the interaction between Cefazolin and Chloramphenicol?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining in serious infections where bactericidal therapy is essential, and choose a single suitable agent. Monitor clinical response if both are used.
What other medicines interact with Cefazolin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cefazolin with, for example, Amikacin, Bcg vaccine live, Cholera vaccine. The full list is on the Cefazolin page.
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