Demeclocycline (HCl)
Demeclocycline is a tetracycline antibiotic. Tetracyclines are derivatives of polycyclic naphthacenecarboxamide. Tetracyclines are broad spectrum antibiotic. They are bacteriostatic and effective against many gram positive and gram negative bacterias. Demeclocycline was obtained by the demethylation of chlortetracycline. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the drug at regular interval of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Demeclocycline (HCl) is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue the drug, it may result in ineffective treatment.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Tetracycline.
It belongs to Antibacterial (Proetin synthesis inhibitor) pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotics pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 501.3 · pKa: 3.3, 7.2, 9.3 · Solubility in Water: very low · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 200 · Non-proprietary name: Demeclocycline (HCl).

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Demeclocycline (HCl) has an oral bioavailability is 70% (±10%).
Distribution: Demeclocycline (HCl) has a volume of distribution is 1.7 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 43-65%.
Elimination: plasma half-life is 10-15 hr, renal excretion is 42%.
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Indications
Demeclocycline (HCl) is primarily indicated in conditions like Acne, Bacterial infections, Genitourinary tract infections, GI infections, Long-term treatment of healed gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, Pneumonia, Respiratory tract infections, Soft tissue infections.
Contraindications
Demeclocycline (HCl) is contraindicated in conditions like Systemic lupus erythematosus, Renal impairment, Hepatic impairment.
Dosage
Demeclocycline (HCl)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 750 mg | 750 mg | — | Atypical pneumonia. | Maintenance dose. |
| 900 mg | 900 mg | Every 24h | PO | For atypical pneumonia |
| 1050 mg | 1050 mg | — | PO | Given as initial dose in Chronic hyponatraemia in divided dose. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | — | Not Recommended in this Age Group |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | — | Not Recommended in this Age Group |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Demeclocycline (HCl) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Staining of developing teeth , Hypoplasia of enamel , Reversible neutrogenic diabetes.
Demeclocycline (HCl) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Anaphylaxis , Liver damage. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Demeclocycline (HCl) are GI disturbances.
Demeclocycline (HCl) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Anorexia , Bulging fontanelle in Infants, Diarrhea, Dysphagia, Elevation of liver enzymes, Enterocolitis , Eosinophilia, Erythematous rash, Glossitis, Hemolytic anemia, Hypersensitivity , Intracranial hypertension, Maculopapular rash, Monilial overgrowth, Nausea, Neutropenia, Photosensitivity, Polydipsia, Polyuria, Skin reactions, StomatitisX, Thrombocytopenia, Urticaria, Vaginitis, Vomiting , Weakness.
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.2.3 — Tetracyclines
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Demeclocycline (HCl) in Pakistan: