Tylosin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic belonging to the macrolide class. It is primarily used in veterinary medicine to treat various bacterial infections in animals, particularly in livestock and poultry. Tylosin is effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and some Gram-negative bacteria, as well as certain mycoplasmas.
Structure
Tylosin is a macrolide antibiotic composed of a 16-member lactone (tylactone) and three deoxy-sugar moieties (Gray and Bhuwapathanapun, 1984).
Mechanism of Action
Tylosin works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It binds to the 50S subunit of the bacterial ribosome, preventing the elongation of the peptide chain during protein synthesis. This inhibitory effect ultimately leads to the bactericidal or bacteriostatic activity of Tylosin, depending on the concentration and specific organism.
Veterinary Use
Tylosin is commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat respiratory tract infections, enteric diseases, and other bacterial infections in animals. It is particularly effective against bacteria such as Actinomyces, Clostridium, Pasteurella, and Mycoplasma. Tylosin is often administered orally or via injection, depending on the animal species and the specific condition being treated.
Formulations
Tylosin is available in various formulations, including injectable solutions, oral powders, granules, and feed additives. These different formulations allow for easy administration and ensure adequate delivery of the drug to the target site.
Limitations and Precautions
While Tylosin is generally considered safe and effective in veterinary use, there are some limitations and precautions to consider. It should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity to macrolide antibiotics. Additionally, Tylosin can have side effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances, allergic reactions, and rare cases of liver toxicity. Proper dosage and administration guidelines should be followed to minimize these risks.
Regulatory Status
Tylosin is approved for use in veterinary medicine in many countries, including the United States. However, it is not approved for use in humans, as it is primarily intended for veterinary use.
Concerns of Antibiotic Resistance
Like other antibiotics, the misuse or overuse of Tylosin can contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance. It is essential to use Tylosin and other antibiotics judiciously, following proper dosage guidelines and only using them when necessary to minimize the risk of resistance.
References
Gray, P.P. and S. Bhuwapathanapun. (1984). Tylosin: Properties, biosynthesis, and fermentation. In: Biotechnology of Industrial Antibiotics. Vol. 22 (Vandamme, E.J., ed.), pp. 743-757
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