Tetracycline is a broad spectrum tetracycline class antibiotic used to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria. It has activity against a variety of Gram positive, Gram negative and atypical organisms and has historically been used for infections affecting the respiratory tract, skin, urinary tract and certain sexually transmitted or vector borne infections.
At the microbiological level, tetracycline acts primarily as a bacteriostatic antibiotic, meaning it prevents susceptible bacteria from growing and multiplying rather than directly killing them. It produces this effect by binding to the bacterial 30S ribosomal subunit and inhibiting protein synthesis, preventing bacteria from producing proteins required for normal growth and replication.
Tetracycline may also be used as adjunctive therapy for moderate to severe acne. Its antibacterial activity can help reduce bacteria involved in inflammatory acne, while tetracycline class antibiotics also have anti inflammatory properties that can contribute to improvement in inflammatory lesions.
This product provides:
- Active Ingredient: Tetracycline Hydrochloride
- Strength: 250mg per tablet
- Quantity: 100 Tablets
- Drug Class: Tetracycline Antibiotic
- Dosage Form: Oral Tablet
Health Canada’s Drug Product Database currently lists a 250mg tetracycline hydrochloride prescription product as marketed in Canada.
As with all antibiotics, tetracycline should be used only for infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be bacterial. Inappropriate or unnecessary antibiotic use can contribute to antimicrobial resistance, making future infections more difficult to treat.
Tetracycline absorption can be reduced by calcium, magnesium, aluminum, iron and zinc, including products such as certain antacids, mineral supplements and some dairy containing foods. These interactions should be considered when tetracycline is prescribed. Adequate fluid intake with the tablet is also recommended to reduce the risk of irritation or ulceration of the esophagus.
Important safety considerations include gastrointestinal upset, photosensitivity, esophageal irritation and, rarely, intracranial hypertension. Concurrent use with isotretinoin should generally be avoided because both medications have been associated with intracranial hypertension.
Tetracycline class antibiotics can also affect developing teeth and bones. Traditional tetracycline is generally avoided during pregnancy and during tooth development in young children except in specific circumstances where alternative treatments are unsuitable.
Tetracycline is a prescription antibiotic and should be used according to the directions of a qualified healthcare professional. Completing the prescribed course and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use are important for reducing the development of bacterial resistance.
