Terramycin

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

An antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections


Terramycin
Drug Information
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IUPAC Name

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C H N O Molecular Weight



Terramycin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the tetracycline class. It is primarily used to treat a variety of bacterial infections in humans and animals. The active ingredient in Terramycin is oxytetracycline, which was discovered in the 1940s and has been widely used since then.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Terramycin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit of the bacteria, preventing the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the mRNA-ribosome complex. This action inhibits the addition of new amino acids to the growing peptide chain, effectively halting bacterial growth and reproduction.

Indications[edit | edit source]

Terramycin is indicated for the treatment of various infections caused by susceptible strains of bacteria. These include:

  • Respiratory tract infections
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Skin and soft tissue infections
  • Rickettsial infections
  • Certain sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia

Administration and Dosage[edit | edit source]

Terramycin can be administered orally, topically, or intravenously, depending on the type and severity of the infection. The dosage varies based on the patient's age, weight, and renal function, as well as the specific infection being treated.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of Terramycin include:

  • Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea and diarrhea
  • Photosensitivity, leading to an increased risk of sunburn
  • Discoloration of teeth in children
  • Potential for hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity

Contraindications[edit | edit source]

Terramycin is contraindicated in:

  • Pregnant women, due to the risk of fetal harm
  • Children under the age of 8, due to the risk of permanent tooth discoloration
  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to tetracyclines

Drug Interactions[edit | edit source]

Terramycin can interact with several other medications, including:

  • Antacids containing aluminum, calcium, or magnesium, which can reduce its absorption
  • Warfarin, as it may enhance the anticoagulant effect
  • Penicillin, as it may interfere with the bactericidal action of penicillin

Resistance[edit | edit source]

Bacterial resistance to Terramycin can occur through several mechanisms, such as:

  • Efflux pumps that expel the drug from the bacterial cell
  • Ribosomal protection proteins that prevent drug binding
  • Enzymatic inactivation of the drug

Also see[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD