Panmycin (tetracycline hydrochloride) is a time-tested, broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the tetracycline class, indicated for the treatment of a wide array of bacterial infections. It functions by inhibiting protein synthesis in susceptible bacteria, effectively halting their growth and proliferation. This makes it a cornerstone in therapeutic regimens for respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and certain sexually transmitted diseases. Its established efficacy profile and wide availability make it a reliable choice for clinicians managing bacterial pathogens susceptible to tetracyclines.

Features

• Active pharmaceutical ingredient: Tetracycline Hydrochloride.
• Available in 250 mg and 500 mg oral capsules.
• Demonstrated in vitro activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms.
• Standard formulation for predictable pharmacokinetics.

Benefits

• Effectively treats a diverse range of common and complex bacterial infections.
• Provides a reliable therapeutic option for patients with penicillin allergies (where appropriate).
• Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, leading to bacteriostatic action against susceptible strains.
• Well-established dosing protocols supported by extensive clinical history.
• Accessible and cost-effective antibiotic treatment.

Common use

Panmycin is commonly prescribed for infections caused by susceptible strains of microorganisms. Typical indications include, but are not limited to, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, typhus fever, and other rickettsial diseases; psittacosis; granuloma inguinale; cholera; brucellosis (in conjunction with streptomycin); bartonellosis; and infections due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae. It is also used for the treatment of various respiratory tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and as an alternative agent for syphilis in penicillin-allergic patients. It may be used as an adjunct in the management of severe acne and for the prophylaxis of malaria.

Dosage and direction

The dosage of Panmycin must be individualized based on the specific pathogen, the severity of the infection, and the patient’s renal function. For most adults, the usual daily dose is 1 to 2 grams, administered in two to four equally divided doses. A common regimen is 500 mg twice daily or 250 mg four times daily. For more severe infections, an initial higher dose may be indicated. For children above eight years of age, the recommended daily dosage is 25 to 50 mg/kg of body weight, divided into four doses. It is imperative to administer Panmycin on an empty stomach, either one hour before or two hours after meals, for optimal absorption. Oral forms should be taken with a full glass of water to minimize the risk of esophageal irritation and ulceration. Therapy should be continued for at least 24-48 hours after symptoms and fever have subsided.

Precautions

• Use during tooth development (last half of pregnancy, infancy, and childhood to the age of 8 years) may cause permanent discoloration of the teeth (yellow-gray-brown) and enamel hypoplasia.
• Tetracycline drugs should not be used in this age group unless other drugs are not likely to be effective or are contraindicated.
• As with other antibiotics, use may result in overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, including fungi. If superinfection occurs, the antibiotic should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.
• Photosensitivity manifested by an exaggerated sunburn reaction has been observed in some individuals taking tetracyclines. Patients should be advised to avoid direct exposure to sunlight or artificial UV light and to discontinue drug at the first evidence of skin erythema.
• In patients with significantly impaired renal function, higher serum levels may lead to azotemia, hyperphosphatemia, and acidosis. Dosage should be reduced in patients with renal impairment.
• The use of tetracyclines may increase BUN. While this is not a problem in normal renal function, it is a consideration in patients with significantly impaired function.

Contraindications

Panmycin is contraindicated in persons who have shown hypersensitivity to any of the tetracycline antibiotics. It is also contraindicated in individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Possible side effect

While generally well-tolerated when prescribed appropriately, side effects can occur. Gastrointestinal system: anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, glossitis, dysphagia, enterocolitis, and inflammatory lesions (with monilial overgrowth) in the anogenital region. These are relatively common. Skin: maculopapular and erythematous rashes. Exfoliative dermatitis has been reported but is uncommon. Photosensitivity is a known reaction. Renal toxicity: rise in BUN, dose-related. Hypersensitivity reactions: urticaria, angioneurotic edema, anaphylaxis (rare). Blood: hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, eosinophilia. Other: bulging fontanels in infants, hepatotoxicity (usually associated with high doses or pre-existing renal impairment), and permanent tooth discoloration in children as noted under Precautions.

Drug interaction

• Antacids containing aluminum, calcium, or magnesium; iron-containing preparations; bismuth subsalicylate: Can form insoluble chelates with tetracycline, significantly impairing absorption. Administration should be separated by 2-3 hours.
• Oral contraceptives: Tetracyclines may decrease the plasma-progestogen levels, potentially reducing the efficacy of oral contraceptives. Patients should be advised to use a non-hormonal backup method of birth control.
• Warfarin: Tetracyclines may potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin and other oral anticoagulants by depressing plasma prothrombin activity. Prothrombin time should be monitored closely.
• Penicillin: Tetracycline may interfere with the bactericidal action of penicillin; concurrent use is not recommended.
• Methoxyflurane: The concurrent use of tetracycline and methoxyflurane has been reported to result in fatal renal toxicity.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped. The patient should not double the next dose to “catch up,” as this increases the risk of side effects. Maintaining a consistent schedule is important to keep a constant level of the antibiotic in the body to fight the infection effectively.

Overdose

Overdosage of tetracycline can lead to specific toxicity, particularly hepatotoxicity. Signs of overdose may include dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Due to the risk of azotemia and hyperphosphatemia, particularly in patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction, overdose can be dangerous. Toxicity is more likely following parenteral administration of excessive doses. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Hemodialysis is not effective for removing the drug due to its high protein binding and extensive tissue distribution.

Storage

Panmycin capsules should be stored at a controlled room temperature, 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F), in a tightly closed, light-resistant container. The medication must be kept out of reach of children and pets. Do not store in the bathroom or other areas susceptible to moisture and heat. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the container.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The information provided is based on the drug’s general profile and may not encompass all possible uses, directions, precautions, or interactions.

Reviews

“Panmycin remains a fundamental agent in our arsenal for managing atypical pneumonias and rickettsial infections. Its predictable spectrum and cost-effectiveness make it a valuable option in appropriate clinical scenarios.” – Infectious Disease Specialist, 15 years experience.

“For severe inflammatory acne vulgaris, a course of Panmycin, combined with topical therapy, often produces significant and lasting improvement for patients who have not responded to first-line treatments.” – Dermatologist.

“While newer antibiotics have emerged, the role of tetracyclines like Panmycin for specific indications such as brucellosis and cholera is well-documented and irreplaceable in certain geographical and clinical contexts.” – General Practitioner.