Tetracycline

Generic Name: Tetracycline (the tra SYE kleen)
Typical Brand Name(s): Brodspec, Emtet-500, Panmycin, Sumycin, Tetracap

Tetracycline is a tetracycline antibiotic. Tetracycline is used to treat bacterial infections, including pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections; acne; infections of skin, genital and urinary systems; and the infection that causes stomach ulcers (Helicobacter pylori).

It also may be used as an alternative to other medications for the treatment of Lyme disease and for the treatment and prevention of anthrax (after inhalational exposure). Tetracycline is in a class of medications called tetracycline antibiotics. It works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

What Is It Used For?
Tetracycline is used for the treatment of bacterial infections. It is also used for many other purposes other than those listed in medication guides. It also may be used as a substitute to other medications for the treatment of Lyme disease and for the treatment and preclusion of anthrax (after inhalational exposure). Tetracycline is in a class of medications called tetracycline antibiotics.

How Is It Used?
Each dose of Tetracycline should be taken full glass of water (8 ounces). It is advisable to take tetracycline on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. It is suggested to avoid dairy products, iron supplements, multivitamins, calcium supplements, antacids, or laxatives within 2 hours of taking tetracycline. These products may reduce the effectiveness of tetracycline.

Are There Possible Side Effects?
Serious side effects from Tetracycline are unlikely to occur; however if allergic reaction, vision changes, severe headache occurs, bleeding, liver damage, contact your local doctor then and there itself. If these effects persist or worsen or you notice some other effects, notify your doctor immediately.

Less serious side effects like: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, swollen tongue, vaginal yeast infection are more likely to occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Is It Safe?
Tetracycline may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. Use a second method of birth control to ensure protection from unintended pregnancy while taking tetracycline. TTetracycline may affect bone and tooth development in the developing baby. Avoid this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Tetracycline passes into breast milk and may affect bone and tooth development in a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
You are suggested to avoid tetracycline if you are already taking any of the following drugs: cholestyramine, minerals like iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and over-the-counter vitamin and mineral supplements; sucralfate; antacid such as Tums, Rolaids, Milk of Magnesia, Maalox, and others; product that contains bismuth subsalicylate such as Pepto-Bismol; didanosine; methoxyflurane, penicillin antibiotic such as amoxicillin, penicillin, dicloxacillin, carbenicillin, oxacillin, and others. It may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. Use a second method of birth control to ensure protection from unintended pregnancy while taking tetracycline.

What If I Miss A Dose?
If you have missed any dose, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

How Should It Be Stored?
Always keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

Anything Else I Should Know?
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial UV light. Tetracycline may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, and severe burning may result. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen if exposure to the sun is unavoidable. If and when tetracycline is used during pregnancy or in babies or children up to age 8, it can cause the teeth to become permanently stained. Tetracycline should not be used in children under age 8 unless your doctor decides it is needed. Talk to your doctor if any discrepancies occur.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.