Tetracycline tablets or capsules

What is this medicine?

TETRACYCLINE (tet ra SYE kleen) is a tetracycline antibiotic. It is used to treat certain kinds of bacterial infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or at least 2 hours after food. Do not take with food or dairy. Do not crush or chew. Take while in an upright or sitting position. Taking a sip of water first, before taking the medicine, may help you to swallow it. Take your bedtime doses at least 10 minutes before lying down.Take your medicine at regular intervals. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think you are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• dark urine

• difficulty breathing

• fever

• pain on swallowing

• rectal or genital irritation

• tooth discoloration

• unusually weak or tired

• white patches or sores in the mouth

• yellowing eyes, skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• black tongue

• diarrhea

• headache

• loss of appetite

• nausea, vomiting

What may interact with this medicine?

• antacids

• birth control pills

• methoxyflurane

• other antibiotics like penicillin

• some multivitamins

• warfarin

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to tetracycline, other antibiotics or medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

Birth control pills may not work properly while you are taking this medicine. Talk to your doctor about using an extra method of birth control.

If you are being treated for a sexually transmitted disease, avoid sexual contact until you have finished your treatment. Your sexual partner may also need treatment.

Avoid products with aluminum, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, or sodium bicarbonate for 2 hours before and after taking a dose of this medicine.