Tetracycline- Comprehensive Guide | Skin Solution 1O1

Tetracycline– Comprehensive Guide 

What is Tetracycline?

Tetracycline is an antibiotic oral drug used to treat various bacterial infections including acne, malaria, plague, syphilis, and cholera. It belongs to a class of antibiotics known as tetracyclines. Tetracycline works by inhibiting the growth and multiplication of bacteria, helping to control and eliminate infections caused by susceptible bacteria. Sold under various brand names. Commonly prescribed by healthcare professionals to address a range of infections in different parts of the body.

Types of Tetracycline

1. Lymecycline
2. Methacycline
3. Minocycline
4. Demeclocycline
5. Rolitetracycline
6. Doxycycline

Tetracycline Sources

Tetracycline antibiotics were initially isolated from the soil-dwelling bacterium Streptomyces Aureofaciens. Although, synthetic production methods are now commonly used to manufacture tetracycline antibiotics. 

Tetracycline Side Effects

• Tetracycline antibiotics can cause a range of side effects, which may include-
• Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
• Headache, blurred vision, or loss of vision.
• Swelling of the face, throat, eyes, tongue and lips.
• Trouble swallowing and breathing.
• Photosensitivity or sensitivity to sunlight.
• Tooth discolouration and enamel hypoplasia, particularly in children and pregnant women when used during tooth development.
• Changes in the normal balance of intestinal bacteria, potentially leading to secondary infections such as yeast infections.
• Liver and kidney problems, particularly with prolonged or high-dose use.
• Allergic reactions, hives, skin rash.

Warnings

Tetracycline use comes with several important warnings-

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding- Tetracyclines, especially during the second half of pregnancy and in young children, can contribute to permanent discolouration of teeth and affect bone growth. They should be avoided during pregnancy and in breastfeeding mothers.
• Children-  Should not be given to children under 8 years of age due to the risk of tooth discolouration and potential effects on bone development.
• Photosensitivity- Tetracyclines can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn. Protective measures, such as a broad-spectrum, mineral sunscreen protective clothing, and umbrella should be taken during treatment.
• Kidney and Liver Issues- Individuals with kidney or liver problems should use tetracyclines cautiously, as these antibiotics can further disrupt these organs.
• Allergic Reactions- Individuals who have a history of allergic reactions to tetracycline or any other antibiotic in the tetracycline class should avoid taking tetracycline.
• Interactions- Tetracyclines can interact with other medications, reducing their effectiveness or causing unwanted side effects. It’s important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking currently.