How it works
Tetracycline stops the formation of certain proteins that are required for the bacteria to multiply and survive. This in turn kills sensitive bacteria in the body.
Guidelines for usage
Follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or as mentioned in the instruction booklet/product label.
Always use only as prescribed. Never exceed the dosage.
Tetracycline is ideally used 1 to 2 hours before having a meal.
It is best if you avoid lying down for at least half an hour after using Tetracycline.
Antacids that contain aluminum, calcium, or magnesium; preparations containing bismuth, iron, zinc, or sodium bicarbonate; or calcium rich foods (eg, milk, dairy products, calcium-enriched juices) must be avoided for at least 2 to 3 hours after using Tetracycline.
Doctors recommend that you swallow the whole tablet/capsules with a glass of water unless it is specified that it can be broken or chewed.
NOTE: Use only if prescribed to you and intended for your use. Do not share with others.
Missed Dose
It is common for people to forget their dosage times and miss doses.
Do not panic if you have missed a dose.
Instead, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double up or take more than what the doctor has prescribed.
How & where do I store Tetracycline?
The medicine label contains detailed instructions regarding safe storage of the medication. Most medicines are best stored at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Some medications may require to be refrigerated. Please check the product label.
Keep it away from the reach of children. Ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
Ask your pharmacist about safely disposing off medication that is past expiry date.
Overdose Related Information
If you accidentally consume more medication than what was prescribed, then contact an emergency healthcare center immediately.
Safety Information
Safety Information/ Warning Precautions
Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before you start using any new medication.
Ensure that you mention the following:
Any prior serious ailment, lifestyle disease or surgery
All the prescription drugs, OTC health supplements, herbal supplements that you are using currently
Your alcohol intake and whether you smoke or not
Any history of a known allergic reaction to prescription drugs or food
If you have diarrhea, a stomach infection, or kidney problems.
This will allow your healthcare provider to prescribe the apt dosage of the medication for you.
To be avoided
You must avoid using Tetracycline if it you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you have conditions like
Acitretin or isotretinoin, Digoxin, methotrexate, methoxyflurane, or oral anticoagulants (eg, warfarin), Tetracycline Atovaquone, lithium, oral contraceptives (birth control pills), or penicillins (eg, amoxicillin).
Using Alcohol
Tetracycline is known to cause drowsiness or dizziness. Your vision may be blurred and your judgement affected if you consume alcohol with this medication. So, avoid using alcohol while using Tetracycline.
These effects may also get aggravated due to hot weather or fever or severe exercise. So, be cautious when you stand up after a long time from a sitting or lying position. If you feel giddy then lie down immediately and seek medical help.
Possible Drug & Food Interactions
Certain prescription drugs or health supplements or even food items are known to interact with the effects of medications. Tetracycline is known to have possible interactions with the following medications.
Additional Information
Tetracycline is an antibiotic that is effective only in the treatment of bacterial infections. It will not be effective against viral infections like cough and cold. Antibiotic treatment must be monitored closely by doctors because prolonged treatment increases the resistance of the bacteria against Tetracycline. A future bacterial infection becomes severe and difficult to treat.
Some patients experience a persistent diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, or blood/mucus in their stool. Contact your doctor immediately if this happens.
Important Information for Pregnant Women
Tetracycline is categorized under FDA pregnancy category D and can cause severe damage to the unborn fetus.
Discuss the potential risks with your healthcare provider before using the medication.
Certain medications may be found in breast milk so speak to your child’s doctor to rule out any possibilities of risk.
