Oxytetracycline is a medication containing oxytetracycline hydrochloride, an antibiotic used to treat conditions like gingivostomatitis and genitourinary infections. It works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that are sensitive to this specific antibiotic.
This medication is traditionally available in pharmacies as 500 mg tablets of oxytetracycline hydrochloride. It is indicated for use in adults and children over the age of 8 for a variety of bacterial infections.
Oxytetracycline requires a medical diagnosis and is sold only with a valid doctor's prescription. Use of this drug must be strictly monitored by a healthcare provider to ensure safety and efficacy.
What it is for
Oxytetracycline is an antibiotic indicated for the treatment of infections such as:
-
Gingivostomatitis caused by Fusobacterium fusiforme
-
Syphilis, caused by Treponema pallidum
-
Rectal infection, caused by Chlamydia trachomatis
-
Genitourinary infection, caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis
-
Urinary tract infection caused by Escherichia coli or Klebsiella sp.
-
Anthrax, caused by Bacillus anthracis
-
Lymphogranuloma venereum caused by Chlamydia sp.
-
Typhus, caused by Rickettsiae
-
Donovanosis (granuloma inguinale) caused by Klebsiella granulomatis
-
Actinomycosis, caused by Actinomyces israelii
-
Extra-intestinal amebiasis, caused by Entamoeba histolytica
In addition, oxytetracycline may be indicated to assist in the treatment of severe acne (acne vulgaris), or for infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae or Klebsiella sp., such as otitis media, pharyngitis, sinusitis, or pneumonia.
How to take
Oxytetracycline should be used only with medical indication. The tablet should be taken orally with a full glass of water, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. This form is indicated only for adults and children over 8 years of age.
-
Adults: The normally recommended dose for adults is 1 to 2 grams (g) per day, divided into four equal doses of 250 mg to 500 mg taken every 6 hours.
-
Moderate infections: For infections of moderate severity, the dose may be 1 g per day, divided into two 500 mg doses, strictly following medical guidance.
-
Children over 8 years: Doses must be calculated by a pediatrician based on body weight, typically 25 to 50 mg/kg per day divided into four equal doses.
Treatment must always follow the specific doses and duration prescribed by the doctor, depending on the type of infection being treated.
Important considerations:
-
Do not take the tablet with milk or dairy products, as calcium can reduce the medication's effect.
-
Avoid taking medications containing iron or antacids (such as sodium bicarbonate, aluminum hydroxide, calcium, or magnesium) at the same time, as they interfere with absorption.
-
To prevent esophageal or stomach irritation, do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the tablet.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects that may occur during treatment include stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, anal inflammation, tooth discoloration, increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity), or pericarditis.
This medication can cause severe allergic reactions requiring immediate medical attention.
Stop treatment and seek emergency care if you experience difficulty breathing, coughing, hoarseness, chest pain, blistering skin, throat tightness, or swelling of the mouth, tongue, or face.
Who should not use
Oxytetracycline should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, or by individuals allergic to oxytetracycline or any other component of the formula. It is also contraindicated for anyone with an allergy to other antibiotics in the tetracycline class.
Oxytetracycline tablets should not be used by children under 8 years of age due to the risk of permanent tooth discoloration and effects on bone growth.