Tetracycline is discovered in the late 1940s. It belongs to a family of broad spectrum antibiotics which are used for the treatment of different bacterial infections such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, typhus fever, and tick fevers. This drug is also used to treat upper respiratory infections, pneumonia, amoebic infections, urinary tract infections and gonorrhea. This drug exerts its bacteriostatic effect by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria. This drug also has strong anti-inflammatory properties.

 

Tetracycline is also commonly used as an alternative drug for people who have allergic reactions to penicillin. Tetracycline is also the first line oral antibiotic drug of choice in the management of moderate to severe acne. It was discovered to be effective in treating acne during the 1950s. It is the most commonly used antibiotic for acne. For treatment of moderate to severe acne, dosage starts with a 500 mg to 1000 mg a day. The dosage shall decrease as improvement has manifest. To be able to suppress acne, long term and low dose therapy of this drug must be continued for several months. For severe acne, dosage may be increased. This antibiotic must not be taken on an empty stomach for the drug to be as effective.

Tetracycline Directions

 

Tetracycline must be taken exactly as advised by your doctor. Expired tetracyclines must no longer be used because it is highly harmful to the kidney. Antacids which contain aluminum, calcium or magnesium must not be taken while under this medication because they will affect the absorption ability of the drug. Tetracycline must also be taken an hour before or two hours after meals. Foods, milk and other dairy products also affect the absorption ability of this drug. The use of this drug must be continued for at least 24 to 48 hours after the symptoms of the illness have subsided.

 

Tetracycline Side Effects

 

Known side effects of tetracycline include anemia, blood disorders, blurring of vision among adults, diarrhea, difficult or painful swallowing, dizziness, genital or anal sores or rash, extreme allergic reactions, hives, increased sensitivity to light, inflammation of the tongue, inflammation of the upper digestive tract, loss of appetite, nausea, problems with vision, swelling due to fluid accumulation and ringing in the ears. Less common side effects are inflamed skin, inflammation of the penis, liver poisoning, muscle pains or weakness, skin eruptions and throat sores and inflammation. When you are experiencing any of these side effects, you must inform your doctor about it so he may advise proper medical action.

 

Tetracycline Precautions

 

Tetracycline must not be taken if you are sensitive to any tetracycline medication. It is also not recommended to be taken when you have allergic reaction to any tetracycline medication. If you are afflicted with a kidney disease, inform your doctor about the medication so your dosage may be properly adjusted. These drugs can make you more prone to sunburn so you need to make the necessary precautions. When this drug is combined with other antibiotics, other infections may be developed. This drug is also not recommended for use for pregnant women because it can affect the development of the unborn child’s bones and teeth.

 

Missed Dose of Tetracycline

 

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time to take your next dose and you typically take Tetracycline once daily, take the missed dose, then take an additional dose in 10 to 12 hours. If you take Tetracycline twice daily, take the missed dose and another dose in 6 hours. If you take 3 doses daily, take the missed dose and another dose in 2 to 4 hours. Then resume your normal medication dosage schedule. Consult a pharmacist if you have questions.