Doxycycline
AntibioticsA bacteriostatic tetracycline antibiotic that binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing protein synthesis. More lipid-soluble than older tetracyclines, so it penetrates tissues and cells well.
Pharmacological information
A class-level scientific overview for general reference — no doses. The ultimate reference is always the locally approved product leaflet and consultation with a veterinarian.
Mechanism of action
A bacteriostatic tetracycline antibiotic that binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing protein synthesis. More lipid-soluble than older tetracyclines, so it penetrates tissues and cells well.
Indications
- Respiratory infections caused by susceptible bacteria
- Intracellular pathogens (Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, Rickettsia, Ehrlichia)
Contraindications & warnings
- Deposits in growing bones and teeth, causing discoloration — avoided as far as possible in very young and pregnant animals
- Caution in hepatic impairment
- Hypersensitivity to tetracyclines
Drug interactions
- Its efficacy is reduced with divalent and trivalent cations (calcium, magnesium, iron, aluminum), but to a lesser degree than older tetracyclines
- Theoretical antagonism with bactericidal beta-lactam antibiotics
Prudent use of antibiotics
Prescribed based on diagnosis and susceptibility testing where possible, to limit antibiotic resistance.
Withdrawal periods
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chickens | 7 days | — | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chickens | 5 days | — | — |
| Turkeys | 12 days | — | — |
| Species | Meat | Milk | Eggs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chickens | 5 days | — | — |
| Turkeys | 12 days | — | — |
Recorded adverse effects
openFDA veterinary reports — the numbers are report counts, not a severity rate.
Related products
Sources
- •Withdrawal periods: UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
- •European Medicines Agency (EMA) — Veterinary medicines
- •Merck Veterinary Manual — Pharmacology
- •World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) — Prudent use of antimicrobials
- •Always verify the locally approved leaflet and consult a veterinarian.