Description
Oxytetracycline (Dihydrate) is a naturally occuring tetracycline, produced by Streptomyces rimosis. Like other tetracycline it has a broad spectrum of activity.it was introduced in 1950. Effective against a wide range of both gram positive and gram negative organisms.The main mechanism of action is on protien synthesis. In addtion to its antibiotic activity Oxytetracycline (Dihydrate) is also a chelating agent and will chelate Ca, Mg or Al ions in the gut. Oxytetracycline (Dihydrate) is administered orally and intramuculalrly. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the drug at regular intervals of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Oxytetracycline (Dihydrate) is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. Discontinuation of the drug may result in ineffective treatment.
Indications
Oxytetracycline (Dihydrate) is primarily indicated in conditions like Acne, Actinomycotic mycetoma, Amoebic dysentry, Biliary tract infections, Brucellosis, Chlamydial infections, Cholera, Fever, Gonorrhoea, Malaria, Melioidosis, Pneumonia, Q Fever, Respiratory tract infections, Rickettsiae, Rosacea, Syphilis, Urinary tract infection, Whipple’s disease, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Acne rosacea, Acne vulgaris, Long-term treatment of healed gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to oxytetracycline or to other tetracycline antibiotics. Porphyria, SLE. Hepatic and renal impairment. Children <12 years. Pregnancy and lactation. Patients receiving vitamin A or retinoid therapy.
Adverse Effects
Significant: Haematologic disorders (e.g. haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, eosinophilia), increased BUN, intracranial hypertension, photosensitivity, overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, permanent yellow-grey-brown tooth discolouration (during the period of tooth development, in the last half of pregnancy, children <12 years), enamel hypoplasia (long-term use or repeated short-term courses), fatty liver degeneration, pancreatitis (high doses).
Cardiac disorders: Pericarditis.
Endocrine disorders: Brown-black microscopic discolouration of thyroid tissue (prolonged use).
Gastrointestinal disorders: Gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, diarrhoea, anorexia, dysphagia, pseudomembranous colitis, glossitis, rectal irritation; oropharyngeal or intestinal candidiasis.
Hepatobiliary disorders: Hepatotoxicity (e.g. hepatitis, jaundice, hepatic failure).
Immune system disorders: Hypersensitivity reactions.
Renal and urinary disorders: Renal dysfunction.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Macropapular and erythematous rash, urticaria, angioneurotic oedema, anaphylaxis, anaphylactoid purpura, exfoliative dermatitis, exacerbation of SLE.
Warnings
Oxytetracycline should be used with caution (if contains tartrazine) in patients with aspirin hypersensitivity, because it may cause allergic reactions (including bronchial asthma). Take appropriate measures if secondary infection occurs. Perform periodic lab evaluation of organ system (e.g. liver or kidney) in case of long term therapy.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, Pregnant Mothers, patients suffering from Kidney dysfunction, patients suffering from Liver Malfunction, and Neonates.
Maximum Dosage
Child: ≥12 years Same as adult dose. Dosage recommendations may vary among countries or individual products. Refer to specific product guidelines.
How supplied
Oxytetracycline
Injections
- 50 mg/ml
Capsules
- 250 mg