Tetracyclines are a class of antibiotics with a broad spectrum of activity. They work by inhibiting protein synthesis, which leads to bacterial cell death. The common tetracyclines prescribed in the United States are tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline and demeclocycline. Tetracyclines are used for the treatment of syphilis, chlamydia and chronic bronchitis and in infections caused by mycoplasma and spirochetes. Like all drugs, tetracyclines may produce many side effects.
Nausea, Vomiting and Diarrhea
Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are the most common reasons for discontinuing tetracycline medication, states "Basic & Clinical Pharmacology." Loss of appetite may also be seen in patients on these medications. Tetracyclines cause these adverse effects because they irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines. The patient may take the medication with food to avoid these side effects. The physician may also reduce the dose or discontinue the medication if these effects become bothersome.
Superinfection
A superinfection is an infection that occurs while the patient is being treated for another infection. Tetracyclines modify the normal flora, or the normal bacteria, found in the body. The patient may develop yeast infection in the mouth or vagina, itchiness and skin infections. Enterocolitis, an inflammation of the colon and intestines caused by clostridium difficile may be present in patients. The organism is able to grow freely in the colon because it is resistant to tetracyclines and because it does not have to compete with the normal bacteria for nutrients. A clostridium difficile infection may cause diarrhea and abdominal cramping. The patient should report the occurrence of diarrhea to a physician who can determine if further medical care is needed.
Growth Inhibition and Tooth Discoloration
Tetracyclines are able to deposit in bones and teeth in young children. According to "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach," children younger than 8 years of age should not be administered these medications because they can discolor teeth and cause defects in the enamel of the teeth, as well as a decrease in bone growth. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not use tetracyclines because they can deposit into fetal teeth and bone, causing deformity or growth inhibition.
Photosensitivity
Tetracyclines, especially demeclocycline, may cause photosensitivity in patients. Photosensitivity, an increased sensitivity to sunlight, may cause the patient to burn more easily, redness, hives and peeling. The patient may also develop photo-onycholysis, which consists of lifting of the nail from the nail bed when exposed to sunlight. The patient should avoid sunlight. If the patient must head outdoors, she should wear protective clothes and apply sunblock. If any of these adverse effects develop, the patient should receive medical care immediately.
References
- "Basic & Clinical Pharmacology"; Bertram G. Katzung; 2007
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
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