Tetracycline
Pronounced tet-rah-SY-kleen
Brand names: Sumycin
Type: Tetracycline antibiotic · All Antibiotics & Infection Medicines
What Tetracycline is used for
- Acne
- Part of stomach ulcer (H. pylori) treatment
- Certain respiratory and sexually transmitted infections
◆ Kidney note
Can worsen kidney function, so other tetracyclines such as doxycycline are usually preferred in kidney disease.
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
Important cautions
- Dairy products, antacids, and iron block its absorption — they are taken at separate times
- Avoided in pregnancy and in young children because it can stain developing teeth and affect bones
How it comes
Capsules. This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.
Toxicity lists: Tetracycline also appears on Medicines That Can Harm the Kidneys.
Related medicines — Antibiotics & Infection Medicines
Please note: This page is a patient-education summary, not medical advice, and it deliberately contains no doses. Medicines affect everyone differently — always follow your own prescription and talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.