Chlortetracycline Hydrochloride
Indications
Chlortetracycline hydrochloride in these products is a veterinary antibiotic for animals, mainly poultry, cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. It is used, under a veterinarian's direction, to treat and control bacterial infections such as respiratory infections (including chronic respiratory disease and mycoplasma infections in poultry), bacterial diarrhoea and enteritis, and other infections caused by bacteria sensitive to it. It is not for human use.
How It Works
Chlortetracycline is a tetracycline antibiotic. It stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and multiply, which allows the animal's immune system to clear the infection. It works against many bacteria and also against mycoplasma.
Dosage and Administration
Use only as directed on the product label or by a veterinarian. Powders are usually mixed into drinking water or feed for a set number of days; the amount depends on the species, body weight and condition. Prepare fresh medicated water daily and make sure it is the only water source during treatment.
Interactions
- Calcium, magnesium, iron and aluminium in feed, mineral supplements, milk replacers or hard water bind the drug and reduce its absorption.
- It should not be combined with penicillin-type antibiotics without veterinary advice, as they may work against each other.
Contraindications
- Animals with known allergy to tetracyclines.
- Animals with severe kidney or liver disease.
- Not for use in humans.
- Do not use in laying birds producing eggs for human consumption unless the label allows it.
Side Effects
Side effects in animals are uncommon at correct doses but may include reduced appetite, digestive upset and, with long use, disturbance of normal gut bacteria. Discolouration of developing teeth and bones can occur in young animals.
If treated animals get worse, stop eating or drinking, or show signs of allergy, contact a veterinarian promptly. If a person swallows the product or has a reaction after handling it, seek medical help.
Pregnancy and Lactation
In animals, use during pregnancy only on veterinary advice, as tetracyclines can affect developing bones and teeth. This product is not for human use; pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid handling it without gloves.
Precautions and Warnings
- Observe the withdrawal period stated on the label: meat, milk and eggs from treated animals must not be used for human food until it has passed.
- Wear gloves and a dust mask when handling powders; avoid contact with skin and eyes and wash hands afterwards.
- Use antibiotics responsibly to reduce antibiotic resistance; do not use for growth promotion.
- Keep away from children, food and animal feed stores.
Overdose
Overdose in animals may cause digestive upset and kidney or liver strain. Stop treatment and contact a veterinarian. If swallowed by a person, contact a doctor.
Therapeutic Class
Veterinary antibacterial, tetracycline antibiotic.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the pack tightly closed and away from food and feed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Chlortetracycline Hydrochloride