Identity

Chlortetracycline HCl (CTC) is an active therapeutic medicine and broad-spectrum tetracycline antibiotic used within the poultry sector.

Overview

Chlortetracycline HCl is a high-priority therapeutic antimicrobial used in the Indian poultry industry. It is specifically utilized for targeting both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Being highly water-soluble, it is ideal for mass water medication to treat bacterial enteritis (scours) and bacterial pneumonia. Its systemic bioavailability is heavily influenced by the chemical composition of carrier water; chelation with polyvalent metal ions can drastically reduce systemic absorption.

Structured Facts

Indications

Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, bacterial enteritis (E. coli, Salmonella spp.), bacterial pneumonia, and fowl cholera (Pasteurella multocida).

Mechanism of Action

It prevents protein synthesis by reversibly binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, blocking the entry of aminoacyl-tRNA into the ribosomal acceptor (A) site.

Dosage

400-800 mg/gal; 1000 mg/gal (for fowl cholera).

Administration Route

Water.

Duration

7 to 14 days.

Withdrawal Period

5 to 7 Days (India standard); 1 day (Chickens & Turkeys according to FDA).

Contraindications

Do not use in laying hens.

Quantitative Data

• Dose: 400-800 mg/gal; 1000 mg/gal
• Concentration: Soluble Powder: 64 g active CTC HCl per packet
• Withdrawal: 5 to 7 Days

Relationships

• Target Diseases: Bacterial enteritis, bacterial pneumonia, fowl cholera
• Related Medicines: Tiamulin Hydrogen Fumarate (synergistic interaction); Diclazuril or Halofuginone (alter pharmacokinetics/clearance rates).
• Feed Additives: Organic acidifiers (citric acid, ammonium formate) prevent chelation and increase absorption.
• Drug Interactions: Chelation with calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) ions, or high concentrations of sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) in hard water reduces bioavailability.