Correct option is D
Chloromycetin, also known as chloramphenicol, is an effective antibiotic used for the treatment of typhoid fever, which is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. This drug works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, which stops the growth of the bacteria responsible for the infection.
Typhoid fever is characterized by high fever, weakness, abdominal pain, and constipation or diarrhea. Early treatment with antibiotics like chloramphenicol is critical to prevent complications such as intestinal perforation. However, due to the emergence of resistant strains of bacteria, other antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin or azithromycin are also commonly used.
Information Booster
- Cause of Typhoid: Caused by Salmonella typhi, typically transmitted through contaminated food and water.
- Symptoms: High fever, headache, abdominal pain, and diarrhea or constipation.
- Other Antibiotics: Ciprofloxacin, Azithromycin, and Ceftriaxone are newer alternatives to Chloromycetin.
- Prevention: Vaccination and ensuring access to clean water and proper sanitation.
Additional Knowledge
- (a) Vitamin A – Incorrect. Vitamin A is not a treatment for typhoid; it is essential for maintaining good vision and immune function.
- (b) Chloroquin – Incorrect. Chloroquin is an anti-malarial drug, not used for typhoid treatment.
- (c) Sulpha-drugs – Incorrect. Sulpha drugs were historically used for bacterial infections but are less effective against typhoid.
- (d) Chloromycetin – Correct. Chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin) is a specific antibiotic used for typhoid fever treatment.