Tetracyclines are a group of antibiotics used to treat many different bacterial infections.
Tetracyclines include the following:
Tetracyclines are usually taken by mouth and work by preventing bacteria from producing proteins they need to grow and multiply.
Tetracyclines should not be taken with products that contain aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or iron. Such products include some antacids and many vitamin and mineral supplements.
Tetracycline and omadacycline should be taken with plenty of water when the stomach is empty because food, especially dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream, reduces its absorption (the movement of a drug into the bloodstream after it is given by mouth).
Minocycline and doxycycline can be taken with or without food because food does not reduce their absorption.
Doxycycline, minocycline, and tetracycline
Tetracyclines
Drug | Common Uses | Some Potential Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
Skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria that are resistant to other antibiotics, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) | Gastrointestinal upset, Clostridioides difficile–induced diarrhea Fungal infection with the yeast Candida Sensitivity to sunlight Staining of teeth in the fetus if used late in pregnancy or if taken by children under 8 years of age |
(See also Overview of Antibiotics.)
Use of Tetracyclines During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant women should not take tetracyclines. These drugs can affect tooth and bone development in the fetus and, if taken late in pregnancy, can cause permanent staining of the fetus's teeth. (See also Drug Use During Pregnancy.)
Use of tetracyclines during breastfeeding is usually discouraged. (See also Drug Use During Breastfeeding.)
