ATC code D06

ATC code D06 is a therapeutic subgroup of the ATC classification system, which is used for the classification of drugs. This subgroup is part of the larger group D, which pertains to Dermatologicals. Specifically, D06 is designated for antibiotics and chemotherapeutics for dermatological use.

Classification

The ATC code D06 is further divided into subcategories based on the type of antibiotic or chemotherapeutic agent. These subcategories include:

D06A: Antibiotics for topical use

This category includes antibiotics that are applied directly to the skin to treat infections. Common agents in this category include:

• D06AA: Tetracyclines

 * Tetracycline
 * Oxytetracycline

• D06AX: Other antibiotics

 * Mupirocin
 * Fusidic acid

D06B: Chemotherapeutics for topical use

This category includes non-antibiotic chemotherapeutic agents used for skin conditions. It is further divided into:

• D06BA: Sulfonamides

 * Silver sulfadiazine

• D06BB: Antivirals

 * Acyclovir

• D06BX: Other chemotherapeutics

 * Metronidazole

Mechanism of Action

The drugs in the D06 category work through various mechanisms depending on their class:

• Antibiotics such as tetracyclines inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing the addition of amino acids to the growing peptide chain.
• Mupirocin inhibits bacterial isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase, leading to the inhibition of protein synthesis.
• Fusidic acid interferes with bacterial protein synthesis by inhibiting the translocation of elongation factor G (EF-G) from the ribosome.
• Silver sulfadiazine acts by releasing silver ions, which have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
• Acyclovir is an antiviral that inhibits viral DNA polymerase, thus preventing viral DNA replication.
• Metronidazole is an antimicrobial and antiprotozoal agent that works by disrupting the DNA of microbial cells.

Indications

Drugs in the D06 category are indicated for the treatment of various skin infections and conditions, including:

• Bacterial skin infections such as impetigo, folliculitis, and infected eczema.
• Viral skin infections like herpes simplex.
• Fungal infections and mixed infections where a broad-spectrum agent is required.

Side Effects

Common side effects of topical antibiotics and chemotherapeutics include:

• Local irritation, redness, and itching at the site of application.
• Allergic reactions, which may manifest as contact dermatitis.
• Systemic absorption leading to systemic side effects is rare but possible, especially with extensive application or use on broken skin.

Contraindications

Contraindications for the use of D06 drugs include:

• Known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any of the excipients.
• Use in patients with a history of allergic reactions to similar compounds.

Conclusion

ATC code D06 encompasses a range of topical antibiotics and chemotherapeutic agents used primarily for dermatological applications. These agents are crucial in the management of skin infections and conditions, providing targeted therapy with minimal systemic effects.

References

• ATC/DDD Index 2023
• National Center for Biotechnology Information

See Also

• ATC code D
• Dermatologicals
• Antibiotics
• Chemotherapeutics

ATC codes
D Dermatologicals
D01 Antifungals for dermatological use
D02 Emollients and protectives
D03 Preparations for treatment of wounds and ulcers
D04 Antipruritics, including antihistamines, anesthetics, etc.
D05 Antipsoriatics
D06 Antibiotics and chemotherapeutics for dermatological use
D07 Corticosteroids, dermatological preparations
D08 Antiseptics and disinfectants
D09 Medicated dressings
D10 Anti-acne preparations
D11 Other dermatological preparations
ATCvet only
QD51 Products for the treatment of claws and hoofs
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