Overview Of Tetracycline

Uses For Tetracycline

This medication is used to treat infections in several areas of the body. For example, it may be prescribed to treat severe acne. It is also beneficial in the treatment of respiratory conditions such as pneumonia. Doctors sometimes prescribe tetracycline to treat Lyme disease and malaria, and it may be considered as a possible option for plague, cholera, brucellosis, and tularemia as well.

Infections spread by lice, mites, or ticks could respond well to tetracycline. Patients may be prescribed this medicine as part of their treatment for a urinary tract infection too. Individuals who are allergic to penicillin may be offered tetracycline to treat certain forms of food poisoning, and it is often recommended when treating patients exposed to anthrax.

Get familiar with the potential side effects next.

Potential Side Effects

Patients who take tetracycline frequently report side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, tongue swelling, and sore throat. Some individuals have also experienced a black or hairy tongue while using tetracycline. Both vaginal and rectal itching have been reported as well. Patients should let their doctor know if these side effects persist or increase in severity. Potentially serious side effects of tetracycline use include facial swelling, breathing difficulties, dizziness, chest pain, and hives. Other serious side effects such as blurred vision, loss of vision, and unusual bruising and bleeding have occurred.

All serious side effects should be reported to a doctor immediately. It may be necessary to seek emergency medical care for these. Individuals who have taken tetracycline could notice a return of chills, fever, and other signs of infection during their treatment. Some patients may have a fever, stomach cramps, and watery or bloody stools for several months after discontinuing this antibiotic. It may be beneficial to keep a symptom diary that records all side effects, as this information will help guide doctors in their treatment plans. If side effects are troublesome or serious, patients should mention this to their doctor; it may be possible to take an alternative medication with fewer side effects.

Read more to uncover the precautions to remember when taking this antibiotic next.