This drug is used to treat bacterial infections. This drug has been sold under the brand names Achromycin and Sumycin. This drug is what is known as a broad-spectrum antibiotic. This means that it is effective against killing a large variety of bacteria.
Preparations
Tetracycline is available in 250mg and 500mg doses. The drug comes in capsule form. Our pharmacy has 30, 60, and 90 count prescriptions.
Uses of Tetracycline
This drug is effective against respiratory infections and some infections associated with stomach ulcers. Other uses of this medication include the treatment of syphilis, acne, and cholera.
How to Take
You should take this mediation approximately 2 hours before eating any food. Food prevents the drug from being fully absorbed in the body. In order to prevent this dilution of the drug make sure you take it on an empty stomach.
Most patients take this medication up to 4 times a day for a period of one to three weeks. Your doctor will give you more specific instructions on how much you should take and for how long.
It is also a good idea not to mix tetracycline with antacids such as Pepto-Bismol and Rolaids. Do not mix this drug with dairy products either. Antacids and dairy products may bind to this drug and make it less effective.
Interactions with other Drugs
If you are taking the popular blood thinner, coumadin, you should notify your doctor. Your physician may have to reduce the amount of coumadin you take. Tetracycline may increase the effects of this blood thinner.
Pregnancy
If you are pregnant you should only take this medication if no other antibiotics are appropriate for treatment. This is due to the effects that tetracycline has on the bone development.
If you are breast feeding your child, you should consult your doctor to see if it is safe for you to do this while on tetracycline. This medication is passed on through breast milk and the possible detrimental effects on bone formation should be of concern.
Storage of Tetracycline
Medications lose their potency if they are very old or if they become exposed to moisture. For these reasons, store your drugs in a cool, dry place for maximum potency.
Side Effects
Generally, there have been reports of only minor side effects which include nausea, headache, and diarrhea. Children under 8 years old have been known to experience tooth discoloration at high concentrations.
