The Secret of Great Health Care
Tetracyclines cover a wide range of bacterial infections and have been around since the late 1940’s. Increased bacterial resistance has been noticed with this antibiotic. There are three main types of tetracycline antibiotics: tetracycline, doxycycline and minocycline.
Tetracyclines cover many types of infections. Some infections that they are used for include:
While this is a long list of indications, this class is not used commonly. Many infections can be caused by a variety of organisms. A bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae is a very common cause of pneumonia, sinus infections and ear infections. While drugs in the tetracycline class may be able to treat this bacteria, it does not do so reliably.
When pneumonia is caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae it can be deadly. It is therefore not recommended as a treatment option if this bacteria is suspected unless there is evidence on a lab test (such as a culture of the mucus) that shows that tetracycline will work or in a patient who likely does not have Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Whereas if another antibiotic is chosen – quinolones - there is a very high probability that the infection will be eradicated.
In addition to the above disease states it covers a variety of other rare infections such as:
As a class, this drug can discolor teeth in young children and therefore the drug should not be used in children, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Tetracyclines should be used with caution in those with liver impairment and may worsen renal failure (more common with tetracycline). They may increase muscle weakness in myasthenia gravis and exacerbate systemic lupus erythematosus.
Common side effects include:
Uncommon side effects
Antacids and milk-products reduce the absorption of tetracyclines. Tetracyclines may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, even more than other antibiotics, but this is a question of debate. It is recommended that if you use antibiotics (especially tetracycline) that you use a back method of contraception, unless you are trying to conceive.
Other drugs that may have an interaction with tetracyclines include:
Tetracycline is taken between one and four times a day. It is given in the oral form only. While it can be used for many different types of infections, it is not used often.
Doxycycline is usually given 1-2 times a day. It is safe to take if you have some degree of kidney dysfunction as opposed to tetracycline, which is excreted through the kidney. Those with heartburn should not take Doryx. Doryx is an enteric-coated form of doxycycline and it is expensive.
Minocycline gets into the body tissues well. This drug has some troublesome side effects including dizziness, a permanent blue/black discoloration of the skin (that may be permanent) and tooth discoloration.
