Comparative Serum Binding, Distribution and Excretion of Tetracycline and a New Analogue, Methacycline

Abstract

The absorption, distribution, excretion, and serum binding of tetracycline and 6-methylene oxytetracycline (methacycline) are compared. The higher and more sustained levels of the latter drug noted after oral and intravenous administration in man may be due to delayed renal excretion ana more limited distribution rather than to enhanced gastrointestinal absorption. These differences are thought to be a reflection of greater serum binding of methacycline.