Chlortetracycline hydrochloride

Chlortetracycline hydrochloride is a type of antibiotic that belongs to the tetracycline class of antibiotics. It is primarily used in the treatment of various bacterial infections, including those caused by gram-positive bacteria and gram-negative bacteria.

History

Chlortetracycline hydrochloride was first discovered in the late 1940s by the American pharmaceutical company Pfizer. It was the first tetracycline antibiotic to be discovered and has since been used extensively in both human and veterinary medicine.

Medical Uses

Chlortetracycline hydrochloride is used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections. These include respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and certain types of intestinal infections. It is also used in the treatment of acne, due to its ability to inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria that contribute to the development of acne.

Mechanism of Action

Chlortetracycline hydrochloride works by inhibiting the ability of bacteria to produce proteins, which are essential for their growth and reproduction. It does this by binding to the bacterial ribosome, thereby preventing the synthesis of new proteins.

Side Effects

Like all antibiotics, chlortetracycline hydrochloride can cause side effects. These may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and photosensitivity. In rare cases, it can also cause more serious side effects such as hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.

See Also

• Tetracycline antibiotics
• Antibiotic resistance
• Bacterial infections