What is Tetracycline for ?

This medication is an antibiotic, prescribed for certain types of bacterial infections. It fights bacteria in the body.

How does Tetracycline work ?

Tetracycline works to harm the bacteria and fight the infection.

How should Tetracycline be used ?

It comes as a tablet, capsule, oral liquid to take by mouth, on an empty stomach. Adults: Usual daily dose is 1 to 2 gm. For mild to moderate infections: 500 mg two times per day. For children above eight years of age: usual daily dose is 10 to 20 mglb (25 to 50 mgkg) body weight divided in four equal doses.

Common side effects of Tetracycline ?

Belly pain. Not hungry. Upset stomach or throwing up. Many small meals, good mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help. Loose stools (diarrhea). Yogurt or probiotics may help. You may get these products at health food stores or in some pharmacies. For women, vaginal yeast infection. Report itching or discharge.

What do I do if I miss a dose ?

Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. Do not change the dose or stop this drug. Talk with the doctor.

What precautions should I take when taking Tetracycline ?

Do not give to a child younger than 8 years of age. If you have an allergy to tetracycline or any other part of this drug. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs. Make sure to tell about the allergy and what signs you had. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other signs. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant.

When do I need to seek medical help ?

If you think there was an overdose, call your local poison control center or ER right away. Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue or gray skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Very bad headache. Very upset stomach or throwing up. Very loose stools (diarrhea), even after drug is stopped. Any rash. Side effect or health problem is not better or you are feeling worse.

Can I take Tetracycline with other medicines ?

Sometimes drugs are not safe when you take them with certain other drugs and food. - Taking them together can cause bad side effects. - Be sure to talk to your doctor about all the drugs you take.

Are there any food restrictions ?

Avoid Alcohol.

How do I store Tetracycline ?

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. - Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

Pregnancy Category ?

Category D : There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Therapeutic Classification ?

Tetracyclines.