Tetracycline 250mg Capsules are an antibiotic medication used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Tetracycline belongs to the class of antibiotics known as tetracyclines, which work by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis.
Key Features
- Active Ingredient: Each capsule contains 250mg of tetracycline hydrochloride.
- Formulation: Capsules are typically available in blister packs, often containing 10 capsules per strip, with multiple strips in a box.
Indications
Tetracycline is indicated for the treatment of:
- Respiratory Tract Infections: Such as pneumonia and bronchitis caused by susceptible bacteria.
- Skin Infections: Including acne vulgaris and rosacea.
- Genitourinary Infections: Effective against infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.
- Gastrointestinal Infections: Including those caused by Campylobacter and Helicobacter pylori.
- Other Infections: Used for treating conditions like anthrax, Lyme disease, and certain types of food poisoning.
Mechanism of Action
Tetracycline works by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, preventing the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the mRNA-ribosome complex. This action inhibits protein synthesis, ultimately stopping bacterial growth.
Dosage and Administration
- Recommended Dosage: For adults, the usual dosage is 250mg every 6 hours, which may be adjusted based on the severity of the infection. For severe infections, higher doses (up to 500mg) may be required.
- Administration Guidelines: Tetracycline should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally one hour before or two hours after meals, as food can interfere with its absorption. It should also be taken with a full glass of water to prevent esophageal irritation.
Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Loss of appetite
- Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight)
- Discoloration of teeth (especially in children)
Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:
- Severe allergic reactions (e.g., hives, swelling)
- Signs of liver damage (e.g., jaundice, dark urine)
- Symptoms of increased intracranial pressure (e.g., severe headache, vision changes)
Precautions
- Contraindications: Tetracycline is contraindicated in children under 8 years old due to the risk of permanent tooth discoloration. It should also be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary.
- Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, as tetracycline can interact with antacids, iron supplements, and certain other medications.
- Monitoring: Regular monitoring may be necessary for patients with liver or kidney impairment.
