About Tylan Powder

Tylan is a name brand version of the medication tylosin produced by the company Elanco. It is FDA approved for use with farm animals such as chickens, pigs and cattle. It is not approved for human use.

  1. Sanctioned Use

    • Tylan powder is only approved for use as a broad spectrum antibiotic for farm animals.

    Off-Label Uses

    • Tylan is sometimes prescribed for off-label uses such as a treatment for gastrointestinal problems in small animals, such as cats and dogs, and as a growth-promoting food additive.

    Production

    • Tylosin is not a laboratory product, but a naturally produced substance. It is a byproduct made by the bacteria Streptomyces fradiae.

    Function

    • Petplace.com reports that Tylan works by inhibiting the protein synthesis ability of Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms, as well as spirochetes, vibrios and mycoplasma.

    Controversy

    • The daily use of products like Tylan powder as treatment for tear staining, a process in which tear pigments stain fur, is controversial due to the antibiotic nature of the medication and cosmetic nature of the condition. Such uses can help to create drug-resistant bacteria.