Oxytetracycline

Products

There are no human drugs containing oxytetracycline on the market in many countries. The original brand name is Terramycin. See also under oxytetracycline eye ointment.

Structure and properties

Oxytetracycline (C₂₂H₂₄N₂O₉, M_r = 460.4 g/mol) is present in drugs as oxytetracycline hydrochloride, a yellow, crystalline, hygroscopic powder that is readily soluble in water. The substance is obtained from certain strains of or produced by other processes.

Effects

Oxytetracycline (ATC J01AA06) has bacteriostatic properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens. The effects are due to inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S subunit of ribosomes.

Indications

For the treatment of bacterial infectious diseases.

Contraindications

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Adverse effects

Possible adverse effects include:

• Indigestion
• Skin rash, photosensitivity
• Allergic reactions
• Blood count disorders