Tetracycline (250mg)

Tetracycline (250mg) — Uses and Benefits

Tetracycline is used to treat a range of bacterial infections in different parts of the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Respiratory tract infections
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Acne (in some cases)
• Certain sexually transmitted infections
• Infections caused by susceptible bacteria as diagnosed by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Tetracycline stops bacteria from making proteins they need to grow and multiply
• This slows down and eventually stops the spread of infection, helping the body's immune system clear it

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not treat viral infections such as cold or flu
• It is not effective against fungal infections
• It should not be used for infections known to be resistant to tetracycline
• It is not a painkiller and does not treat pain unrelated to infection

How to Use Tetracycline (250mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Usually taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals
• Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water
• Avoid taking it with milk, dairy products, or antacids as they reduce absorption
• Complete the full course even if you feel better, unless your doctor tells you to stop
• Avoid direct sunlight exposure while on this medicine

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use expired medicine, as degraded tetracycline can be harmful to kidneys

Tetracycline (250mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach upset

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Headache
• Discolouration of teeth (especially in children)
• Vaginal itching or discharge due to fungal overgrowth

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe skin rash, blistering or peeling
• Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
• Severe watery or bloody diarrhoea
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
• Severe headache with vision changes (signs of increased pressure in the brain)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Tetracycline (250mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are a child under 8 years of age
• Are allergic to tetracycline or related antibiotics
• Have severe kidney disease without medical supervision

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney problems
• Have a history of allergies to antibiotics
• Are taking other medicines regularly
• Are planning pregnancy
• Have a known sensitivity to sunlight

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminium
• Iron or zinc supplements
• Oral contraceptives (may reduce effectiveness)
• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Other antibiotics like penicillin

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take tetracycline with milk?

No, dairy products reduce absorption of the medicine, so avoid taking it close to milk or dairy intake.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

No, tetracycline can affect the baby's bone and teeth development and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Can children take this medicine?

• Generally not recommended for children under 8 years as it can cause permanent teeth discolouration.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.