Tetracycline

Broad-spectrum bacteriostatic antibiotic for susceptible bacterial, rickettsial, and Mycoplasma infections. First-generation tetracycline antibiotic. Mechanism: reversibly binds 30S ribosomal subunit → blocks aminoacyl-tRNA docking → bacteriostatic inhibition of protein synthesis. Active against gram-positive, gram-negative, Rickettsia, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma. Chelates divalent cations → reduced absorption with dairy, antacids, iron. Moderate tissue penetration. Key information Chelated by calcium, antacids, dairy, iron — administer separately by 2+ hours. Do not use in neonates (bone/tooth effects). Food animal withdrawal times required.

Oral tablets or capsules: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. (1 hr before or 2 hrs after feeding for best absorption). Avoid concurrent dairy, antacids, and iron. IV: dilute and infuse slowly over 1 hr — do not rapid infuse. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one. Always complete the full antibiotic course and separate from dairy/antacids.

GI: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, esophageal irritation. Tooth/bone discoloration in young animals. Photosensitivity. Superinfection (Candida). Hepatotoxicity (high doses). IV: cardiovascular collapse (rapid injection). Chelation with multivalent cations reduces absorption.

For animals Use with caution in pregnant animals. Avoid in neonates and young animals. Avoid concurrent dairy, antacids, and multivalent cation supplements. Reduce dose or extend interval in renal impairment. Use with caution in hepatic impairment. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Tetracycline — Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Avoid in pregnancy. Photosensitivity. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling.

Contact your veterinarian. Overdose causes GI signs, liver toxicity, and kidney damage at very high doses.