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.