What it is used for
- Acne and rosacea
- Some respiratory infections
- Certain sexually transmitted infections
- Some tick-borne and other specialised infections
- Part of combination treatment for stomach ulcers linked to H. pylori
How it works
Tetracycline is one of the original tetracycline antibiotics. It stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and multiply. Newer relatives such as doxycycline are now used more often, but tetracycline is still used for certain conditions.
How it is taken
Comes as capsules and tablets. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label. Take it with a full glass of water on an empty stomach, and avoid lying down soon afterwards to protect the food pipe. Complete the full course as advised.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Diarrhoea
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Thrush
- Loss of appetite
Serious effects — get help
- Severe allergic reaction with swelling or breathing difficulty
- Pain or difficulty swallowing or chest pain (possible irritation of the food pipe)
- Severe headache with blurred vision (rare pressure around the brain)
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Severe, persistent or bloody diarrhoea
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Antacids and supplements with calcium, iron, magnesium or zinc (separate the timing)
- Dairy products
- Blood thinners such as warfarin
- Oral retinoid acne medicines (avoid combining)
- Penicillin-type antibiotics
Who should take care
- Not usually given in pregnancy, breastfeeding or to young children as it can affect developing teeth and bones
- Take on an empty stomach away from dairy and supplements
- Use sun protection as skin can burn more easily
- Tell your clinician if you have kidney or liver problems
- Take with water and stay upright to protect the food pipe