| name | Tetracyclines |
| classification | Antibiotics (Tetracycline class) |
| pharmacokinetics | Tetracyclines are readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, but absorption is reduced by food, antacids, and other medications. They are widely distributed throughout the body and concentrated in tissues such as teeth and bone. Excretion occurs primarily via the kidneys. Pharmacokinetics can vary between different tetracycline types (e.g., doxycycline has a longer half-life than tetracycline). |
| dosage | Dosage varies significantly depending on the specific tetracycline, the infection being treated, and the patient's age and renal function. Always follow prescribed instructions carefully. Consult a physician for proper dosage. |
| indications | Tetracyclines are used to treat various bacterial infections, including skin infections, respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections. They are also used in the treatment of certain types of acne. |
| pregnancy safety | Tetracyclines are potentially harmful to the developing fetus, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. They may cause discoloration of developing teeth and should be avoided in pregnant women unless benefits outweigh risks. Consult a physician for a risk-benefit assessment. |
| breastfeeding safety | Tetracyclines can be secreted into breast milk. Use with caution in breastfeeding mothers due to potential adverse effects in infants. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) | | 2 | Photosensitivity (increased skin sensitivity to sunlight) | | 3 | Headache | | 4 | Yeast infections | | 5 | Discoloration of developing teeth (in children and pregnant women) | | 6 | Liver and kidney problems (in some cases) | | 7 | Superinfections (opportunistic infections caused by antibiotic resistance) |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Hypersensitivity to tetracyclines or other components of the medication | | 2 | Severe liver or kidney disease | | 3 | Pregnancy (except in cases where benefits outweigh risks) | | 4 | Children younger than eight years old (due to tooth discoloration risk) |
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| drug interactions | Tetracyclines can interact with several other medications, including antacids, iron supplements, and some medications for other medical conditions. Consult a physician or pharmacist for potential interactions with other medications the patient may be taking. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Use with caution in patients with impaired renal function; dosage adjustments may be necessary. | | 2 | Avoid prolonged sun exposure or tanning beds and use sunscreen while taking tetracyclines to reduce photosensitivity risk. | | 3 | Do not use in children under 8 years of age without medical supervision due to the risk of permanent teeth discoloration. | | 4 | Close monitoring of liver function is recommended for prolonged use. |
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| additional information | Take tetracyclines with a full glass of water, ideally on an empty stomach to maximize absorption. Do not crush or chew tablets/capsules unless directed by a physician. |
| patient profile | |
