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Oxytetracycline HCl: Full Drug Profile

Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026

Oxytetracycline HCl - General Information

A tetracycline analog isolated from the actinomycete streptomyces rimosus and used in a wide variety of clinical conditions. [PubChem]

 

Pharmacology of Oxytetracycline HCl

Oxytetracycline HCl is known as a broad-spectrum antibiotic due to its activity against such a wide range of infections. It was the second of the tetracyclines to be discovered. Oxytetracycline HCl, like other tetracyclines, is used to treat many infections common and rare. Its better absorption profile makes it preferable to tetracycline for moderately severe acne, but alternatives sould be sought if no improvement occurs by 3 months.

 

Oxytetracycline HCl for patients

 

Oxytetracycline HCl Interactions

No Information Provided

 

Oxytetracycline HCl Contraindications

This drug is contraindicated in persons who have shown hypersensitivity to any of the tetracyclines.

 

Additional information about Oxytetracycline HCl

Oxytetracycline HCl Indication

Oxytetracycline HCl is indicated for treatment of infections caused by a variety of Gram positive and Gram negative microorganisms including Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Pasteurella pestis, Escherichia coli, Haemophilus influenzae (respiratory infections), and Diplococcus pneumoniae.

Mechanism Of Action
Oxytetracycline HCl inhibits cell growth by inhibiting translation. It binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit and prevents the amino-acyl tRNA from binding to the A site of the ribosome. The binding is reversible in nature. Oxytetracycline HCl is lipophilic and can easily pass through the cell membrane or passively diffuses through porin channels in the bacterial membrane.
Generic Name
Oxytetracycline
Drug Category
Anti-Bacterial Agents; Tetracyclines
Drug Type
Small Molecule; Approved
Other Brand Names containing Oxytetracycline
Oxytetracycline anhydrous; Oxytetracycline HCl; Terramycin;
Absorption
Readily absorbed following oral administration.
Toxicity (Overdose)
Adverse effects may include stomach or bowel upsets and rarely allergic reactions. Very rarely severe headache and vision problems may be signs of dangerous intracranial hypertenion.
Chemical IUPAC Name
(2Z,4S,4aR,5S,5aR,6S,12aS)-2-(amino-hydroxymethylidene)-4-dimethylamino-5,6,10,11,12a-pentahydroxy-6-methyl-4,4a,5,5a-tetrahydrotetracene-1,3,12-trione
Chemical Formula
C22H24N2O9
Organisms Affected
Enteric bacteria and other eubacteria