Oxytetracycline

The Basics

What is Oxytetracycline?

Treatment for chest infections such as pneumonia, and also for some mouth infections; also used for infections resulting from some types of bites, and some sexually transmitted infections.

Brand names for Oxytetracycline

Terramycin

How Oxytetracycline is classified

Anti-Infective Agents, Antibacterial Agents, Tetracyclines

Oxytetracycline During Pregnancy

Oxytetracycline pregnancy category

Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.

What we know about taking Oxytetracycline while pregnant

Results of animal studies indicate that tetracyclines cross the placenta, are found in fetal tissues and can have toxic effects on the developing fetus (often related to retardation of skeletal development). Evidence of embryotoxicity has also been noted in animals treated early in pregnancy.

Taking Oxytetracycline While Breastfeeding

What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Oxytetracycline?

A number of reviews have stated that tetracyclines are contraindicated during breastfeeding because of possible staining of infants’ dental enamel or bone deposition of tetracyclines. However, a close examination of available literature indicates that there is not likely to be harm in short-term use of oxytetracycline during lactation because milk levels are low and absorption by the infant is inhibited by the calcium in breastmilk. Short-term use of oxytetracycline is acceptable in nursing mothers. As a theoretical precaution, avoid prolonged or repeat courses during nursing. Monitor the infant for rash and for possible effects on the gastrointestinal flora, such as diarrhea or candidiasis (thrush, diaper rash).

Maternal / infant drug levels

A number of reviews have stated that tetracyclines are contraindicated during breastfeeding because of possible staining of infants’ dental enamel or bone deposition of tetracyclines. However, a close examination of available literature indicates that there is not likely to be harm in short-term use of oxytetracycline during lactation because milk levels are low and absorption by the infant is inhibited by the calcium in breastmilk. Short-term use of oxytetracycline is acceptable in nursing mothers. As a theoretical precaution, avoid prolonged or repeat courses during nursing. Monitor the infant for rash and for possible effects on the gastrointestinal flora, such as diarrhea or candidiasis (thrush, diaper rash).

Possible effects of Oxytetracycline on milk supply

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Possible alternatives to Oxytetracycline

Doxycycline, Tetracycline.