Oxytetracycline (Ophthalmic)
Also known as: Terramycin, Engemycin, Oxycare
* **Administration:** Wash hands before and after application. Do not allow the tip of the tube to touch the eye, eyelids, or any other surface to prevent contamination. * **Duration:** It is critical to continue treatment for the full 3-4 weeks as directed, even if the eye looks completely normal after a few days. Stopping early can lead to a relapse of the infection. * **Expectations:** You should see dramatic improvement in your cat's eye within 3 to 4 days. * **Note:** Your veterinarian may recommend an oral medication (like doxycycline) instead of or in addition to this ointment to fully clear the infection from your cat's system.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Chlamydial/Mycoplasma keratoconjunctivitis
- Susceptible infections (when no other agent is suitable)
- Susceptible infections
- Susceptible infections
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Local irritation
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rare)
- Potential for overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms (e.g., fungi) with prolonged use
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Depression
- Hepatotoxicity (rare)
- Fever
- Hypotension (following IV administration)
- Anorexia (especially in cats)
- Superinfections (with prolonged use)
- Renal tubular functional changes
- Teeth staining in developing animals
Cautions & contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to tetracyclines or polymyxin B
- Use of concentrated cattle/sheep depot formulations in small animals
- Pregnancy (last 2-3 weeks)
- Neonates (first month of life)
- Use in cats unless absolutely necessary
- Expect potential recurrence after discontinuation of topical treatment from organisms dormant in the nasal passage. Oral doxycycline is considered a better treatment to eliminate the carrier state of Chlamydia in cats.
Drug interactions
- Penicillins: Bactericidal action of penicillins may be inhibited by oxytetracycline
- Antacids (Mg, Ca, Al): Binds tetracycline, significantly reducing its GI absorption
- Food or Milk products: Binds tetracycline, reducing its absorption
- Methoxyflurane: May increase the nephrotoxic effects
- Theophylline: GI effects of tetracyclines may be increased
Frequently asked questions
What is Oxytetracycline (Ophthalmic) used for in pets?
* **Administration:** Wash hands before and after application. Do not allow the tip of the tube to touch the eye, eyelids, or any other surface to prevent contamination. * **Duration:** It is critical to continue treatment for the full 3-4 weeks as directed, even if the eye looks completely normal after a few days. Stopping early can lead to a relapse of the infection. * **Expectations:** You should see dramatic improvement in your cat's eye within 3 to 4 days. * **Note:** Your veterinarian may recommend an oral medication (like doxycycline) instead of or in addition to this ointment to fully clear the infection from your cat's system.
Is Oxytetracycline (Ophthalmic) safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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