The medication is also used in the treatment of other infections like acne, genital, urinary system and stomach ulcers. The drug is sold with different brand names like Sumycin, Terramycin, Tetracyn, and Panmycin.
The drug belongs to the class of medication known as tetracycline antibiotics. It works by inhibiting the growth of the bacteria that are responsible to cause the infection. It also prevents the existing bacteria from spreading the infection.
The commonly recommended dosages of Tetracycline are 250mg or 500mg as single dosage or divided into four dosages daily. The treatment may take one or two weeks. The dosage may vary depending on the symptoms of the disease being treated. Only a doctor can determine the correct dose for an individual patient.
The medication is available in the form of tablets or capsules and can be administered orally with a glass of water. The tablets are taken on an empty stomach at least one or two hours before eating anything. It is advised not to take any dairy products with the medicine.
The most commonly reported side effects during the treatment are stomach problems, diarrhea, itching of the rectum or vagina, sore throat, vision disturbances, increased photosensitivity or sunburn.
Some of the side effects that are adverse but not so commonly observed include severe headache, skin rash, hives, yellowing of the skin or eyes, difficulty breathing or swallowing, itching, unusual bleeding or bruising, joint stiffness or swelling, vomiting, confusion, fatigue, change in urine color, fever and chills.
If the patient observes these or any other unusual reactions they must immediately consult the doctor. If they observe any allergic reactions to this medicine or have allergy of any other drug they must tell the doctor.
The overdose of the medicine can lead to adverse side effects. The medication can make the person feel drowsy and can cause severe headache. They should avoid engaging in work that demands alertness. The patients should limit the use of alcohol during the treatment as the ingredients of the tablets can interact with alcohol and can prove dangerous to the health.
The drug can be safely used for treating the adult patients and children above 8 years of age. The use of drug during pregnancy or in children can cause the teeth to get permanent stains. The women planning for pregnancy or are breast-feeding mothers should consult the doctor before treatment.
