Sumycin

tetracycline

Brand(s):

• Hostacycline Tetracycline Capsules Rancycline Terarid Tetzen

Manufacturer:

• Aventis Pharma Limited / Li Drugs / Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd. / Ridley Life Science Pvt. Ltd / Zenlabs Pharmaceutical Inc.

Disease(s):

• Infections / Acne / Gonorrhea / Chlamydia

Known as:

• Achromycin / Achromycin V / Actisite / Bristacycline / Nor-Tet / Panmycin / Robitet Robicaps / Sumycin / Teline / Tetracap / Tetralan / Tetram / Tetrex / Topicycline

Tetracycline Capsule

What is Tetracycline?

Tetracycline is an antibiotic medication used to fight bacterial infections. It works by either killing bacteria or preventing their growth. This versatile drug is effective against a wide range of infections, including those affecting the skin, bones, respiratory tract, sinuses, ears, and urinary tract. It's also prescribed for certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, it's crucial to remember that tetracycline is not effective against viral infections like the common cold or influenza.

Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

Before starting tetracycline, be sure to inform your doctor about any pre-existing health conditions or allergies. This includes:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Allergies to tetracycline, other antibiotics, medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding

This information helps your doctor determine the appropriate dosage and assess potential risks.

How to Take Tetracycline

Always take tetracycline as directed by your doctor. Typically, it's taken orally with a full glass of water. For optimal absorption, it's best to take it on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal. Avoid taking it with food or dairy products. The capsules should be swallowed whole; do not crush or chew them. To make swallowing easier, consider taking a sip of water before the capsule. For bedtime doses, allow at least 10 minutes before lying down. Maintain a consistent schedule for taking your medicine. It's vital to complete the entire course of treatment, even if you start to feel better. Skipping doses or stopping early can lead to treatment failure and the development of antibiotic resistance.

Parents should consult their pediatrician before giving tetracycline to children, as special considerations may apply.

Overdosage: In case of an accidental overdose, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Personal Use Only: This medication is prescribed for your individual use only. Do not share it with others.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up on doses.

Potential Drug Interactions

Tetracycline can interact with several other medications. It's essential to inform your doctor about all medications you're taking, including:

• Antacids
• Birth control pills
• Methoxyflurane
• Other antibiotics, such as penicillin
• Some multivitamins
• Warfarin

This list isn't exhaustive. Be sure to provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, herbs, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements you use. Also, mention any alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drug use.

Monitoring Your Progress and Potential Side Effects

Contact your doctor immediately if your symptoms don't improve or worsen.

Sun Sensitivity: Tetracycline can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing and sunscreen when outdoors, and avoid tanning beds.

Birth Control: Tetracycline can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss additional contraceptive methods with your doctor.

STIs: If treating an STI, refrain from sexual contact until completing the treatment course. Your partner may also need treatment.

Mineral Interactions: Avoid products containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, or sodium bicarbonate for two hours before and after taking tetracycline.

Possible Side Effects

Report these side effects to your doctor immediately:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue)
• Dark urine
• Difficulty breathing
• Fever
• Painful swallowing
• Rectal or genital irritation
• Tooth discoloration
• Unusual weakness or fatigue
• White patches or sores in the mouth
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but report to your doctor if they persist or are bothersome):

• Black tongue
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects.

Storage Instructions

Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F), protected from light. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.