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Oxycollin (Biocol): Ophthalmic Antibiotic – Indications, Dosage, and Precautions

Oxycollin (brand name Biocol) is a topical ophthalmic antibiotic solution containing oxytetracycline hydrochloride (typically 1% or 3%). It is a broad-spectrum tetracycline-class antibiotic.

Indications

  • Bacterial conjunctivitis (acute and chronic)
  • Blepharitis (staphylococcal, seborrheic)
  • Keratitis (superficial, bacterial)
  • Corneal ulcers (adjunctive)
  • Prophylaxis post-ocular surgery or trauma
  • Trachoma (Chlamydia trachomatis) – in endemic areas

Spectrum of Activity

  • Gram-positive: Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Corynebacterium
  • Gram-negative: Haemophilus, Moraxella, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma
  • Resistance: Increasing; not for Pseudomonas, MRSA, or enteric Gram-negatives

Dosage and Administration

  • Adults/Pediatrics: Instill 1–2 drops into affected eye(s) every 2–3 hours (6–12 times daily)
  • Severe infections: Initially every hour; reduce frequency as response occurs
  • Duration: Continue 48 hours after clinical resolution; typically 5–10 days total
  • Ointment form (if available): 1 cm ribbon 3–4 times daily (better nocturnal coverage)

Instructions for Use

  1. Wash hands thoroughly
  2. Tilt head back; pull lower lid down to form pouch
  3. Instill drops without touching dropper tip to eye, lids, or fingers
  4. Close eye gently; apply nasolacrimal occlusion (press inner canthus) 1–2 min to reduce systemic absorption
  5. Replace cap immediately
  6. Discard bottle 28 days after opening (preservative efficacy)

Precautions and Adverse Effects

  • Contraindicated: Hypersensitivity to tetracyclines
  • Common: Transient stinging, burning, blurred vision, conjunctival hyperemia
  • Rare: Allergic contact dermatitis, superinfection (fungal, resistant bacteria)
  • Pregnancy/Lactation: Category D (systemic tetracyclines); topical minimal absorption but avoid prolonged use
  • Pediatrics: Safe in children; avoid in infants <2 months if possible (systemic absorption)
  • Contact lenses: Remove before instillation; wait 15 min before reinsertion
  • Discoloration: Do not use if solution darkens or precipitates

Storage

  • Room temperature (15–25°C); protect from light; do not freeze

Oxycollin/Biocol is a cost-effective tetracycline ophthalmic; reserve for susceptible organisms and avoid monotherapy in severe sight-threatening infections.

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