What are Tetracyclines?

Tetracyclines are a group of antibiotics that inhibit the growth of bacteria by preventing the production of essential proteins. They are effective against a wide variety of bacteria, making them a versatile treatment option for many different types of infections.

How do Tetracyclines work?

Tetracyclines work by inhibiting the bacterial ribosome, which is responsible for protein synthesis. By binding to the ribosome, tetracyclines prevent the bacteria from producing the proteins they need to grow and multiply, ultimately leading to the death of the bacteria.

Common Uses of Tetracyclines

Tetracyclines are used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including:

Respiratory infections
Skin infections
Urinary tract infections
Acne
Syphilis
Lyme disease
Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Important Considerations

Tetracyclines should not be taken with dairy products or antacids, as they can bind to calcium and magnesium in these products, reducing the absorption of the antibiotic.
They should not be used in children under the age of 8 or in pregnant women, as they can affect bone and tooth development in the fetus or young child.
Photosensitivity can occur with tetracycline use, so it's important to use sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure while taking these antibiotics.