Information about Tetracycline
Tetracycline is a versatile antibiotic effective against a wide range of bacterial infections. It works by inhibiting the growth and spread of bacteria by interfering with protein synthesis within the bacterial cells. Tetracycline is part of the tetracycline class of antibiotics and is often used to treat infections when other antibiotics are not suitable.
Product Highlights
- Tetracycline is used to treat infections such as respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections (like acne), and certain sexually transmitted infections (like chlamydia).
- It is commonly used in the treatment of moderate to severe acne.
- It is one of the first-line treatments for infections caused by Rickettsia bacteria, such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
- Tetracycline can also be used for certain rare, severe bacterial infections.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Effective against a wide range of bacterial infections.
- Tetracycline can be an alternative for patients who are allergic to penicillin.
- Can be used both topically (for acne) and systemically (for infections).
- It also has mild anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for conditions like acne.
Direction of Use
- The usual dosage for adults is 250 to 500 mg every 6 to 12 hours, depending on the severity of the infection. The dosage for children is determined by their body weight.
- Tetracycline should be taken on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) with a full glass of water to reduce the risk of irritation to the throat.
- The course of treatment usually lasts 7 to 14 days, depending on the type and severity of the infection.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
Safety Concerns
- Tetracycline can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn. It is advisable to wear sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
- Tetracycline should generally be avoided during pregnancy (especially in the second and third trimesters) and while breastfeeding due to potential harm to the developing fetus or infant, including risk of tooth discoloration.
- Tetracycline should be used cautiously in patients with impaired kidney or liver function. Dosage adjustments may be necessary.
- Tetracycline may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is important to stay hydrated during treatment.
- Prolonged use in children under 8 years old can cause permanent tooth discoloration, as well as enamel hypoplasia.
- Long-term use of tetracycline can lead to overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms, like yeast or Clostridium difficile, resulting in superinfection.
Avoid Tetracycline If
- You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, especially in the second and third trimesters.
- You are breastfeeding, as tetracycline can pass into breast milk and harm the baby.
- You have a known allergy to tetracycline or any of its ingredients.
- You have a history of severe kidney or liver disease, as tetracycline can exacerbate these conditions.
- You are under 8 years old, since the drug can cause permanent tooth discoloration in children.
- You are taking antacids or other medications containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum, as these can interfere with tetracycline absorption.
