Oxytetracycline
Generic Name
Oxytetracycline 250 mg Capsule
Manufacturer
Various manufacturers (generic drug)
Country
Globally manufactured
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| oxytetracycline 250 mg capsule | ৳ 1.50 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Oxytetracycline is a broad-spectrum tetracycline antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
250-500 mg orally every 6-12 hours, depending on the severity of infection. Maximum 4 g/day.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment needed unless renal impairment is present.
Renal_impairment
Dosage reduction may be necessary; caution advised. Avoid if possible in severe renal failure.
How to Take
Administer orally with a full glass of water, preferably 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Avoid taking with dairy products, antacids, or iron supplements due to reduced absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Oxytetracycline inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by reversibly binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, thereby preventing the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the ribosomal acceptor site. This action interferes with peptide elongation and ultimately inhibits bacterial growth.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1-2 hours
Excretion
Primarily via urine and feces.
Half life
6-12 hours
Absorption
Incomplete but good oral absorption, affected by food and dairy products.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized in the liver.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to tetracyclines
- Pregnancy (especially second and third trimesters)
- Lactation
- Children under 8 years of age (due to permanent tooth discoloration and bone growth inhibition)
- Severe hepatic impairment
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May potentiate anticoagulant effect.
Penicillins
May interfere with bactericidal action of penicillins.
Methotrexate
May increase methotrexate toxicity.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce efficacy of oral contraceptives.
Antacids (containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium) & Iron Supplements
Reduced absorption of oxytetracycline.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Management is supportive, including gastric lavage and symptomatic treatment. Hemodialysis is not effective.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category D in pregnancy (risk to fetus, permanent tooth discoloration and skeletal abnormalities). Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to potential for permanent tooth discoloration and inhibition of bone growth in the child.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to tetracyclines
- Pregnancy (especially second and third trimesters)
- Lactation
- Children under 8 years of age (due to permanent tooth discoloration and bone growth inhibition)
- Severe hepatic impairment
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May potentiate anticoagulant effect.
Penicillins
May interfere with bactericidal action of penicillins.
Methotrexate
May increase methotrexate toxicity.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce efficacy of oral contraceptives.
Antacids (containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium) & Iron Supplements
Reduced absorption of oxytetracycline.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Management is supportive, including gastric lavage and symptomatic treatment. Hemodialysis is not effective.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category D in pregnancy (risk to fetus, permanent tooth discoloration and skeletal abnormalities). Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to potential for permanent tooth discoloration and inhibition of bone growth in the child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals
Approval Status
Approved globally, including by FDA and DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied and widely used for decades. New trials focus on resistance patterns and novel formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests (for long-term therapy)
- Kidney function tests (especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment)
- Blood counts (for prolonged use)
Doctor Notes
- Always inquire about patient's pregnancy status or possibility before prescribing to women of childbearing age.
- Advise patients about photosensitivity and proper administration to avoid esophageal irritation.
- Consider renal function when determining dosage.
- Educate patients on the importance of completing the full course.
Patient Guidelines
- Take with a full glass of water to prevent esophageal irritation.
- Avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking the capsule.
- Do not take with milk, dairy products, antacids, or iron supplements. Separate by at least 2-3 hours.
- Protect skin from sun exposure; use sunscreen and protective clothing.
- Complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally no known adverse effects on driving ability, but if dizziness or headache occurs, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent further infections.
- Avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications and supplements you are taking.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.