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DERMATOLOGICALS › ANTIBIOTICS AND CHEMOTHERAPEUTICS FOR DERMATOLOGICAL USE › ANTIBIOTICS FOR TOPICAL USE › Tetracycline and derivatives
oxytetracycline
D06AA03
Forms & Strengths
- Ophthalmic ointment: 1% (10 mg/g) oxytetracycline hydrochloride with polymyxin B sulfate
- Topical ointment: 3% oxytetracycline with polymyxin B sulfate
Adult Dosing
- Ophthalmic: Apply a small amount of ointment to the affected eye(s) 2 to 4 times daily depending on severity of infection
- Topical: Apply a small amount to the affected skin area 1 to 4 times daily
Pediatric Dosing
- Ophthalmic (neonates and older): Apply a small amount to the affected eye(s) 2 to 4 times daily
- Topical (pediatric patients): Apply sparingly to the affected area 1 to 4 times daily
Indications
- Treatment of superficial ocular infections involving the conjunctiva and/or cornea caused by susceptible organisms
- Treatment of superficial skin infections caused by susceptible bacterial strains
Mechanism of Action
- Binds reversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria
- Blocks access of aminoacyl-tRNA to the mRNA-ribosome complex, thereby inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to oxytetracycline or any other tetracycline class antibiotics
- History of hypersensitivity to any excipient in the formulation
Adverse Reactions
- Local hypersensitivity reactions including pruritus, swelling, and urticaria
- Transient stinging, burning, or irritation upon ocular application
- Superinfection with nonsusceptible organisms, including fungi, with prolonged use
Drug Interactions
- Antagonism may occur if used concurrently with bactericidal antibiotics like penicillins
- Systemic absorption from topical or ophthalmic application is minimal, making significant systemic drug interactions rare
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use