Tetracycline exhibits its bacteriostatic action by reversibly binding to the 30S subunits of the ribosome, thus preventing protein synthesis and arresting cell growth. It has a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity including Chlamydiaceae, Mycoplasma spp., Rickettsia spp., spirochaetes, many aerobic and anaerobic gm+ve and gm-ve pathogenic bacteria and some protozoa.

Tetracycline ointment is indicated as followings-

• Treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis
• Treatment of trachoma (by preference use oral azithromycin for this indication)
• Prevention of chlamydial and gonococcal neonatal conjunctivitis

Wash the eyes with boiled and cooled water before each application. Use sterile sodium chloride 0.9% for newborns. Apply tetracycline 1% into the conjunctival sac of both eyes:

• Conjunctivitis: one application 2 times daily for 7 days
• Trachoma: one application 2 times daily for 6 weeks
• Prevention of neonatal conjunctivitis: one single application immediately after birth

Do not use in patients with hypersensitivity to tetracyclines. May cause allergic reactions; stop treatment in the event of a serious reaction.

Burning, irritation, visual disturbances, superinfections, photosensitivity, hypersensitivity

Hepatic impairment. Avoid exposure to sunlight. Periodic evaluation of renal, hepatic and haematological system during prolonged therapy.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category- D. There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.