| Usage |
Usage
Tetracycline is available in capsule form for oral administration. Typically, it is taken either two or four times daily. For optimal absorption, it should be ingested on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals or snacks. A full glass of water should be consumed with each tetracycline dose. It is crucial to avoid taking tetracycline with food, particularly dairy products like milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. To ensure accurate usage, carefully follow the instructions provided on your prescription label, and if you have any queries, consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification. Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage; do not exceed or reduce it, and refrain from taking it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
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| Side Effects |
Side Effects
Tetracycline may lead to side effects. If you encounter any of these symptoms and they persist or worsen, it is essential to inform your doctor:
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Itchy sensation in the anal or vaginal region
• Swelling of the tongue
• Tongue discoloration (appearing black or hairy)
• Sore or irritated throat
Certain side effects necessitate immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor promptly:
• Headache
• Blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss
• Skin rash
• Hives
• Puffiness of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Joint stiffness or swelling
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Chest pain
• Recurrence of fever, sore throat, chills, or other signs of infection
• Watery or bloody stools, stomach cramps, or fever during treatment or for up to two months after discontinuing treatment
Tetracycline may also produce other side effects. In case you encounter any unusual issues while taking this medication, consult your doctor.
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| Storage |
Storage
Keep this medication in its original container, securely closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature, protecting it from light, excessive heat, and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. To safely dispose of any unused medication, do not flush it down the toilet. Instead, consult your pharmacist or contact your local waste management authority to inquire about available medicine take-back programs in your area.
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| Precaution |
Precaution
Before using tetracycline, inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist if you are allergic to tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline, demeclocycline, any other medications, or any components of the tetracycline capsule. You can ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
Additionally, let your doctor and pharmacist know about any prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking or planning to use. Pay special attention to mentioning anticoagulants (blood thinners) like warfarin and penicillin.
It's important to be aware that antacids containing magnesium, aluminum, calcium, or sodium bicarbonate, as well as calcium supplements, zinc products, iron products, and magnesium-containing laxatives, can interfere with the effectiveness of tetracycline. To avoid this, take tetracycline either 2 hours before or 6 hours after antacids, calcium supplements, zinc products, and magnesium-containing laxatives. For iron preparations and vitamin products containing iron, take tetracycline either 2 hours before or 4 hours after.
Inform your doctor if you have a history of lupus (an autoimmune disorder that affects various tissues and organs) or kidney disease.
If you are pregnant, intend to become pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding, it is advisable to seek guidance from your healthcare provider. Tetracycline can be harmful to a developing fetus, so if you become pregnant while using tetracycline, contact your doctor immediately.
It's advisable to minimize unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight and to protect your skin with clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen while using tetracycline. This medication may increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight, potentially leading to sunburn.
Lastly, keep in mind that tetracycline use during pregnancy or in children up to the age of 8 can cause permanent staining of teeth. Unless your doctor deems it necessary, tetracycline should not be administered to children under the age of 8.
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