What is Ocudox?
Ocudox is a broad-spectrum synthetically derived antibiotic derived from oxytetracycline.
How Does Ocudox Work?
Ocudox is predominantly bacteriostatic and it is believed to have its antibiotic effect by the inhibition of protein synthesis. It is also thought to have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Reasons for Using Ocudox
Ocudox is indicated in the treatment of Mycoplasma pneumonia, Chlamydia, gram negative bacteria which are shown to be sensitive to Ocudox, gram positive bacteria which are shown to be sensitive to Ocudox, acne, and chronic recurrent blepharitis.
Contraindications for Ocudox
Ocudox is contraindicated in people who are hypersensitive to any tetracycline.
Precautions for Ocudox
Ocudox may cause permanent discoloration of teeth (yellow, brown, grey) during tooth development during the last half of pregnancy, infancy, and childhood to age eight. Ocudox should not be used in this group unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Ocudox may cause diarrhea and can alter the normal flora of the intestines, It may cause Clostridium difficile associated with diarrhea.
Ocudox may cause a decrease in fibula growth and is reversible when Ocudox is discontinued.
Ocudox is animal studies has shown to cross the placenta and is found in fetal tissues.
Ocudox can cause photosensitivity resulting in exaggerated sunburn.
Ocudox can cause an overgrowth of nonsusceptible bacteria and other organisms.
Ocudox use does not guarantee protection against malaria.
Ocudox absorption is reduced when taken with food especially any containing calcium.
Ocudox depresses plasma prothrombin and patients who are on anticoagulant therapy may need to reduce their dose.
Pregnancy
There are no adequate clinical studies on the use in pregnant women. They should only use Ocudox if the potential benefit outweighs the risks.
Nursing Mothers
Ocudox is excreted in human milk and therefore nursing women should only use it if the potential benefit outweighs the risks.
Side Effects for Ocudox
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, glossitis, interocolitis, and inflammatory lesions in the anogenital area
Skin
Maculopapular, erythematosus rashes, and exudative dermatitis have been reported
Renal Toxicity
Elevated BUN has been reported
Hypersensitivity Reactions
Urticaria, angeonerotic edema, anaphylaxis, anaphylacoid purpura, serum sickness, pericarditis, and exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus
Hematology Reactions
Hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and esinophilia
Other Reactions
Bulging frontals in infants and intracranial hypertension in adults
Administration and Strength of Ocudox
The usual dose for blepharitis is 50mg by mouth twice a day. In more severe cases of blepharitis, 100mg by mouth twice a day may be necessary.
How is Ocudox Supplied?
Ocudox is supplied in 50mg capsules.
Summary
Ocudox is a valuable treatment in more chronic recurrent cases of blepharitis.
