Used primarily as a prodrug in medical treatments, this compound is administered to treat severe bacterial infections when other antibiotics are not suitable. It is especially effective in treating typhoid fever, meningitis, and certain eye infections due to its broad-spectrum activity. The succinate ester enhances water solubility, allowing for intravenous or intramuscular delivery. Once in the body, it is metabolized to the active form, chloramphenicol, which inhibits bacterial protein synthesis. Its use is generally reserved for serious infections because of potential side effects, including bone marrow suppression.