About Tetracycline

Tetracycline belongs to the group of antibiotics which act as sensitive bacteria inhibitors. The medication enables the immune system to function and to kill bacteria infections by interfering with the formation of proteins.

Uses or Indications

Tetracycline is usually prescribed for patients who have allergy to penicillin. The medication is good in treating such infections as tick and typhus fevers, as well as Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Besides, Tetracycline can be applied to pneumonia, amoebic infections, infections of the upper respiratory tract, urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, conjunctivitis, trachoma and severe acne.

How to Use Tetracycline

Tetracycline should be taken according to the doctor`s prescription. In case you use the drug in its liquid form, don`t forget to shake it before administrating. It is important to avoid expired Tetracycline, as well as combining the drug with calcium, aluminum and antacids that contain magnesium (Mylanta, Maalox etc). The medication should be taken 1-2 hours before meals, if your food contains milk products.

Even if the symptoms are abated, you should keep on taking Tetracycline during 1-2 days.

Possible Side Effects

Possible Side Effects of Tetracycline imply dizziness, blood disorders like anemia, vision problems and headache in adults, problems in upper digestive tract such as tongue inflammation and painful and difficulty swallowing, hives, rashes, anal or genital sores, nausea, vomiting, hypersensitivity to light, loss of appetite, extreme allergic reactions, diarrhea, bulging soft spot on the head in babies, fluid accumulation which causes swelling and ringing in the ears.

Drug Precautions

• You shouldn`t take Tetracycline during the last half of pregnancy. It can have a negative impact on the teeth and bone development of the fetus.
• Lab tests showed that Tetracycline appears in breast milk and is likely to affect a nursing infant. Consult with your doctor beforehand.
• It isn`t recommended for children under 8 years old to take this medication.
• Stop taking the drug if you noticed allergic reaction.
• If you suffer from kidney disease, check with your doctor before taking Tetracycline.

Drug Interaction

Consult with your doctor before combining Tetracycline with antacids which contain magnesium, aluminum or calcium; with blood thinners like CoumadinOral; with Maalox and contraceptives Penicillin, such as Pen-Vee, K Amoxil etc.

Missed Dose

If you are administrating Tetracycline once a day and it is about time for the next dose, take the missed dose and then the next 10 to 12 hours later. If taken two times a day, have the missed dose and then the next 5 to 6 hours later. If you take 3 doses a day, administrate the missed one and then the next 2 to 4 hours later. Then return to your standard dosage schedule.

Overdose

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose of tetracycline.

Storage

Store capsules of Tetracycline at room temperature in tight containers. Keep the Tetracycline liquid form of tetracycline in the refrigerator, but without allowing it to freeze.