Tetracycline is a prescription antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections. It is part of an antibiotic drug class called tetracycline antibiotics, which work by killing bacteria that cause infections. Other tetracycline antibiotics include demeclocycline, doxycycline, and minocycline.

Tetracycline is currently available under the brand names Adoxa, Brodspec, Cleeravue-M, Declomycin, Doryx, Dynacin, Minocin, Nuzyra, Seysara, Sumycin, and Vibramycin. It can come in the form of a tablet, extended-release tablet, delayed-release tablet, capsule, extended-release capsule, syrup, and powder for suspension.

Tetracycline is used to treat infections caused by certain types of bacteria, including respiratory tract infections and certain illnesses spread by ticks, lice, and other insects, such as Lyme disease, malaria, and rocky mountain spotted fever (RMSF). It also treats some bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Certain types of urinary tract infections, like urethritis, can also be treated by tetracycline.

It is sometimes used to treat adult rosacea or adult acne by decreasing inflammation, killing bacteria that infect your skin pores, and reducing oil secretion that causes acne.

For patients who are allergic to penicillin, tetracycline can serve as an alternative treatment option for food poisoning. Although rare, tetracycline can also be used to treat or prevent certain serious infections which result from bioterror attacks, such as exposure to the plague, tularemia, or anthrax inhalation.

It is important to only use antibiotics like tetracycline when prescribed, as taking antibiotics when they are not needed can increase your chance of contracting an antibiotic-resistant infection. Remember that antibiotics like tetracycline are only effective against bacterial infections and will not work against viral infections such as the cold or flu.

Simply put, tetracycline works by stopping bacteria from making the proteins that they need to survive. Without these proteins, the bacteria can no longer grow and eventually die.

Tetracycline treats acne by killing the bacteria that infect your skin pores and reducing oil secretion that causes acne. In cases of rosacea, tetracycline works by reducing inflammation in the skin, which relieves redness.

While adverse reactions to tetracycline are uncommon, some patients who take the drug may experience side effects, including headaches, gastrointestinal problems (stomach cramps, diarrhea), and dermal photosensitivity (increased skin sensitivity to sunlight). Tetracycline and other antibiotic medications have been known to cause yeast infections, so be on the lookout for symptoms like vaginal discharge, itching, or discomfort.

This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, visual changes, or yellowing skin while taking tetracycline.

As with all prescription medication, be sure to inform the prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with tetracycline. Tetracycline can interact with other forms of medication and substances, causing potentially serious side effects or life-threatening allergic reactions. Drug interactions can occur with blood thinners such as warfarin, certain retinoids, penicillin, and proton pump inhibitors among others.

Antacids and supplements containing calcium and magnesium can reduce the amount of tetracycline that your body absorbs, so be sure to take tetracycline 1–2 hours before or 1–2 hours after taking antacids or supplements.

Using tetracycline can cause your skin to become sensitive to sunlight or ultraviolet light, so try to avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun or UV rays (tanning beds) and do your best to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, or sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher. Call your doctor if you notice redness, swelling, or blistering as a result of sun exposure while on tetracycline.

Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) with estrogen can lose effectiveness when combined with tetracycline, so unplanned pregnancy can occur.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding, pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with this medication.

Tetracycline can come in the form of tablets, extended-release tablets, and an oral suspension. Although the typical dosing amount can range from 250mg-2 grams per day, usage and dosing will vary depending on the age of the patient, their diagnosis, and their body weight. Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not discontinue or increase your dosage of tetracycline without consulting with your provider first. If you begin to experience adverse side effects while taking this medication, like those listed above, inform your provider right away.

To prevent your infection from becoming resistant to antibiotics, you should continue taking the tetracycline until you finish the prescription, even if you feel better. Do not skip doses or stop taking the tetracycline, and follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

Tetracycline should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Tetracycline is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not tetracycline is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for tetracycline to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.