tetracycline
an ANTIBIOTIC that is obtained both naturally and synethically and is used to treat rickettsial, viral and bacterial infections (e.g. RELAPSING FEVER ).
Tetracycline is used to treat infections caused by bacteria including pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections; ; certain infections of skin, eye, lymphatic, intestinal, genital and urinary systems; and certain other infections that are spread by ticks, lice, mites, and infected animals. It is also used along with other medications to treat acne. Tetracycline is also used to treat plague and tuleramia (serious infections that may be spread on purpose as part of a bioterror attack). It can also be used in patients who cannot be treated with penicillin to treat certain types of food poisoning, and anthrax (a serious infection that may be spread on purpose as part of a bioterror attack). Tetracycline is in a class of medications called tetracycline antibiotics. It works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria. Antibiotics such as tetracycline will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections. Using antibiotics when they are not needed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking tetracycline affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
It is not known whether tetracycline can make it harder to become pregnant. If you have concerns about fertility while taking this medication, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking tetracycline increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many different reasons, and it is not known whether tetracycline increases this chance. One study based on filled antibiotic prescriptions (including 67 for tetracycline) reported an increased chance of miscarriage, but such studies cannot confirm whether the medication was actually taken, making the findings difficult to interpret. Any questions about this should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking tetracycline increase the risk of birth defects?
Every pregnancy begins with a background risk of 3–5% for a birth defect. Studies suggst that overall, the available information on tetracycline has not shown an increased chance of birth defects. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits of treatment against any potential concerns.
Can taking tetracycline during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
If tetracycline is taken after the 4th month of pregnancy, there is a chance the baby's "baby" teeth may be discolored (gray or yellowish brown), although this does not appear to affect enamel development or the chance of cavities. Tetracycline may also affect calcification of bones and teeth and may slow some bone growth during fetal exposure, though bone growth seems to return to usual after the medication is stopped. The fact sheet notes it has been suggested that tetracycline be avoided after 4 months of pregnancy unless a provider has a reason to prescribe it.
Can taking tetracycline during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
According to the fact sheet, studies have not been done to determine whether tetracycline can increase the chance of behavior or learning issues in the child. This is a good topic to raise with your healthcare provider for individualized guidance.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking tetracycline?
Tetracycline passes into breastmilk in small amounts, and absorption by a breastfeeding baby is low. There is a theoretical (unproven) concern about tooth discoloration and delayed bone growth, but problems in infants are not expected with short-term use; the WHO Working Group on Human Lactation has stated that for 7–10 days of use while nursing, the risk to the infant appears to be low, while other antibiotics may be suggested for long-term or repeated use. If the baby develops symptoms such as diarrhea, thrush, or diaper rash, contact the child's healthcare provider, and discuss any breastfeeding questions with your own provider.
Source: National Library of Medicine
tetracycline