Medications and Drugs
Medical Author: Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Medical Editor: Jay Marks, MD
GENERIC NAME: tetracycline
BRAND NAME: Sumycin
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Tetracycline is an antibiotic with a broad
spectrum, that is, it is active against many different bacteria. It is effective
against Hemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae,
Chlamydia psittaci, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and many
others. Tetracycline prevents growth of bacteria by preventing the bacteria to
manufacture proteins that they need to survive. The first drug of the
tetracycline family, chlortetracycline, was introduced in 1948.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Capsules: 250 and 500mg; Oral Suspension: 125 mg/5 ml
(teaspoon).
STORAGE: Tetracycline should be stored below 30 C (86 F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Tetracycline is used for treating several types of
infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Some examples include infections of
the respiratory tract, urinary tract, and skin. It also is prescribed for
nongonococcal urethritis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever,
typhus,
chancroid,
cholera, brucellosis, anthrax,
syphilis, and acne. It is used in combination
with other medications to treat Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria associated
with ulcers and inflammation of the stomach and duodenum.
DOSING: Food reduces the absorption of tetracycline. Therefore,
tetracycline should be taken at least two hours before or after meals. For most
infections, tetracycline is taken two to four times daily for 7 to 14 days. The
usual adult dose is 1-2 g/day in 2 or 4 divided doses.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tetracycline should not be taken at the same time
as aluminum, magnesium, or calcium-based antacids [for example,
aluminum with magnesium hydroxide-oral
(Mylanta, Maalox), calcium
carbonate (Tums, Rolaids)]; iron supplements;
bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol), and dairy products. These agents bind
tetracycline in the intestine and reduce its absorption into the body.
Tetracycline may enhance the activity of the blood thinner, warfarin
(Coumadin), and result in excessive "thinning" of the blood, necessitating a
reduction in the dose of warfarin. Phenytoin (Dilantin), carbamazepine
(Tegretol), and barbiturates (such as phenobarbital) may enhance the elimination
of tetracycline. Tetracycline may reduce the effectiveness of
oral
contraceptives.
PREGNANCY: Tetracycline antibiotics can impair development of bone in
the fetus. Therefore, tetracycline is not recommended during
pregnancy unless
there is no other appropriate antibiotic.
NURSING MOTHERS: Tetracycline is secreted into breast milk. Since
tetracycline can impair the development of bone in infants,
nursing mothers
should not use tetracycline.
SIDE EFFECTS: Tetracycline is generally well-tolerated. The most
common side effects are diarrhea or loose stools, nausea, abdominal pain, rash,
and vomiting. Headache and dizziness may also occur. Tetracycline may cause
discoloration of teeth if used in patients below 8 years of age. Exaggerated
sunburn can occur with tetracycline
(photosensitivity). Therefore, sunlight or sunlamp exposure
should be minimized during treatment.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 12/19/2008
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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