Terramycin for Rabbits

Terramycin is a common antibacterial ointment for rabbits.

Terramycin, also known as oxytetracycline, is a drug with antibacterial and antibiotic properties. This medication is prescribed for a number of purposes, but primarily to prevent infections that are believed to result from the presence of bacteria. Terramycin is used to treat infections in humans and animals, notably rabbits, and it comes in several different forms to suit different types of infections.

Characteristics

Terramycin is a bright yellow antibiotic that possesses antimicrobial activity on a potent level. Regarding broad-spectrum antibiotics, terramycin is one of the most versatile for the treatment of infections resulting from bacteria, larger viruses, aerobic and anaerobic organisms and rickettsia, which is a bacteria carried by ticks, lice and mites.

Types

Terramycin comes in different forms, which are used to treat specific infections. Terramycin is primarily available in a powder or gel ointment. The ointment is a suspension in a petroleum gel that is typically available in a 1/8 ounce tube that can be applied to skin wounds, eyes and other infected areas. Some terramycin is marketed specifically as ophthalmic ointment, intended for use in the eyes. Terramycin is available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms. To determine the right type of terramycin to use, speak to your veterinarian.

Contents

Terramycin ointment is a gel ointment that is a suspension with polymyxin B sulfate and oxytetracycline hydrochloride in it. The ointment itself is not the medication, but rather the medication is suspended in the ointment base. The base is a special petroleum based gel. Every gram of the terramycin ointment contains 10,000 units of polymyxin B sulfate and 5 milligrams of oxytetracycline hydrochloride.

Indications

Terramycin ointment is available with different indications in mind. The administration for this type of ointment is between two and four times daily, until the infection clears up. Terramycin ointment is also indicated for eye infections, skin infections and skin wounds, as well as other infections where bacteria may be playing a role. Powder terramycin is also available, but typically only includes dosages for livestock. Follow poultry dosing instructions or speak to a veterinarian for assistance.

Potential

Speak to a veterinarian to find out if terramycin ointment is the right medication for treating the infection in question. Terramycin is available through veterinarians, online pharmacies and over-the-counter in some instances. In 2010, terramycin has been difficult to find in the United States, and many retailers and pet pharmacies have it listed as a back order, but veterinarians may still be able to acquire it. They may also be able to recommend a suitable substitution.

References

• Caroline Tanaka, DVM; Veterinarian; Austin, Texas
• "Rabbit Health in the 21st Century Second Edition: A Guide for Bunny Parents"; Kathryn Smith; 2003