Overview Of Tetracycline
Precautions To Remember
This antibiotic can cause harm to an unborn baby. Thus, patients should let their doctor know if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Patients who become pregnant while on tetracycline should contact their doctor immediately. This antibiotic may not be appropriate for use in patients who have lupus or kidney disease. Patients should discuss their full medical history with their doctor to make sure tetracycline is safe for their needs.
This medication could increase a patient's sensitivity to sunlight. Thus, during treatment with tetracycline, they will need to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to the sun. Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and protective clothing should be used while outdoors. Patients will need to inform their doctor immediately if they develop a sunburn. Frequent blood tests may be required while the patient is taking tetracycline. These are used to gauge how well the medication is working. Patients should inform laboratory technicians of their tetracycline use before having blood work or other lab tests.
Advice For Taking It
Tetracycline must be taken on an empty stomach, and patients should take each dose at least one hour before or two hours after eating any meals or snacks. In particular, patients should ensure they do not take tetracycline with dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt, or ice cream. Each dose should be consumed with a full eight-ounce glass of water. Some patients may experience an upset stomach when they are on this antibiotic. If this happens, they should call their doctor to ask if it would be appropriate for them to have some food when they take it. Their doctor can advise them on what is acceptable.
Finally, patients should avoid taking this antibiotic immediately before going to bed. This is because lying down after taking tetracycline increases the risk of throat irritation. Thus, patients cannot lie down for at least ten minutes after they take a dose. Ideally, they should take it at least one hour before bedtime.
