Tetracycline tablets

About tetracycline

What is tetracycline used for?

Tetracycline is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections such as chest infections, mouth infections, sexually transmitted infections, and infections resulting from some types of bites.

Tetracycline is also prescribed for some longer-term skin conditions, such as acne and rosacea.

Tetracycline works by stopping bacteria from growing and causing infection.

Side effects of tetracycline

Common side effects of tetracycline are:

• Diarrhoea.

• Stomach upset.

• Tummy pain.

• Headache.

• Blurred vision.

You will find a full list of the side effects which can be associated with your medicine on the manufacturer's printed information leaflet supplied with the medicine.

Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to manage tetracycline side effects

Who should not take tetracycline?

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions. Before starting tetracycline it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should not take tetracycline.

• If you are under 12 years of age. Tetracycline should not be taken by children.

• If you have any problems with the way your liver works, or if you have any problems with the way your kidneys work.

• If you have an inflammatory condition called systemic lupus erythematosus (also called lupus, or SLE), or if you have a condition causing muscle weakness, called myasthenia gravis. Tetracycline can make these conditions worse.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take tetracycline

• Read the leaflet inside the pack before starting tetracycline. It explains how the antibiotic works and lists possible side effects.

• Take tetracycline exactly as your doctor tells you to. Check the label for your exact dose and schedule.

  • For infections: usually 3-4 doses per day.

  • For acne or rosacea: usually 2 doses per day.

• Take your doses at the same times each day and space them evenly.

• Take the tablets when your stomach is empty. This means taking your doses one hour before you eat food, or waiting until two hours after you have eaten.

• Avoid milk for 2 hours before and after your dose as it can make the medicine less effective

• The tablets can cause throat irritation. To prevent this, you should swallow the tablets with a large drink of water. Sit upright or stand up to take the tablets. Try to avoid taking tetracycline just before lying down, or at bedtime.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Try to take the correct number of doses each day, but do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Treatment usually lasts about a week for infections, or several months for acne or rosacea. Finish the full course unless your doctor says otherwise.

• Check with a pharmacist before taking other medicines, as some can affect tetracycline. Avoid antacids or supplements with iron, magnesium, or zinc at the same time as they reduce its effectiveness. Take them at least 2 hours before or after your dose.

• Antibiotics can sometimes cause thrush (oral or vaginal). If this happens, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

• Tetracycline can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid strong sun and sunbeds until you know how your skin reacts.

• Tetracycline can stop the oral typhoid vaccine from working properly. Tell the person giving you any vaccines that you are taking this antibiotic.

How to store tetracycline

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for tetracycline to work?

For most infections tetracycline starts to work after the first dose, with most people noticing improvements in their symptoms after 2-3 days. For acne it can take 6-8 weeks and for rosacea it may take several weeks to see noticeable results.

Is it safe to take tetracycline during pregnancy?

No, it is not safe to take tetracycline during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester. Tetracycline can affect the development of bones and teeth in a baby.

Can I drink alcohol while taking tetracycline?

You can drink alcohol in moderation while taking tetracycline. Alcohol does not stop tetracycline from working, however it may increase side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness, or feeling unwell. For best results, you should limit alcohol until you finish your course and feel fully recovered.

Why does tetracycline stain teeth?

Tetracycline can stain teeth because it sticks to calcium in developing teeth. Over time, this causes the teeth to change colour, starting yellow, then turning brown or grey as they’re exposed to light. Once this happens, the staining is permanent.

Why can't you take tetracycline before bed?

You should not take tetracycline before bed because lying down straight after taking it increases the chance of it getting stuck, causing irritation and possible inflammation of the throat. You should take it with a full glass of water and stay upright for at least 30 minutes afterwards.