Sumycin (Tetracycline)

Description

Indications

Tetracycline is used to treat infections caused by bacteria including pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections, as well as certain infections of skin, eye, lymphatic, intestinal, genital and urinary systems. It is also used along with other medications to treat acne and can be used in patients who cannot be treated with penicillin to treat certain types of food poisoning. Tetracycline is in a class of medications called tetracycline antibiotics. It works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria.

Uses and Dosage

Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication orally, typically 2 or 4 times daily. Tetracycline is most effective when taken on an empty stomach, either one hour before or two hours after meals. If you experience stomach upset, consult your doctor about the possibility of taking the medication with food. Drink a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) with each dose, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Avoid lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking the medication, so it’s advisable not to take it right before bedtime.

Ensure a gap of 2 to 3 hours before or after taking any products containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium. Examples include antacids, quinapril, specific forms of didanosine (chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), vitamins/minerals, and sucralfate. Apply the same guidelines to dairy products (such as milk, yogurt), calcium-enriched juice, bismuth subsalicylate, iron, and zinc, as these items can bind with tetracycline, hindering its complete absorption.

The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. In children older than 8 years, the dosage is also weight-dependent.

For optimal results, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced intervals. Establish a routine by taking the medication at the same time(s) daily.

Continue the course of this medication until you complete the full prescribed amount, even if symptoms improve within a few days. Prematurely stopping the medication may lead to a recurrence of the infection.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• itching of the rectum or vagina
• swollen tongue
• black or hairy tongue
• sore or irritated throat

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• headache
• blurred vision, seeing double, or loss of vision
• skin rash
• hives
• swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, and eyes
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• joint stiffness or swelling
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• chest pain
• a return of fever, sore throat, chills, or other signs of infection
• watery or bloody stools , stomach cramps, or fever during treatment or for up to two or more months after stopping treatment

Caution

• Before initiating tetracycline, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, whether to tetracycline itself, or other tetracyclines like doxycycline and minocycline, or any other substances. Inactive ingredients in this product may trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
• Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, problems swallowing, or esophagus issues such as hiatal hernia or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• This drug may induce dizziness, and the use of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate this effect. Refrain from activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely.
• Tetracycline may affect the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines, such as the typhoid vaccine. Inform your healthcare professional that you are using tetracycline before undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations.
• Be cautious about sun exposure, as this medication can make you more sensitive to sunlight. Limit your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
• Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug.
• This medication is not suitable for use in children under 8 years of age, as it may cause permanent tooth discoloration and other problems. Tooth discoloration has also been reported in older children and young adults. Consult your doctor for more information.
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Pregnancy should be avoided while using tetracycline, as it may harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
• Tetracycline passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Sumycin is available in the following forms and strengths:

• tetracycline tablet:
  • 250 mg
  • 500 mg

FAQ

Is Sumycin a penicillin?

No. Sumycin isn’t a penicillin. Sumycin and penicillin medications belong to two different groups of antibiotics. The chemical structures of the medications are different, and they fight against bacteria in different ways.

Can I take Sumycin for the flu or a common cold?

No, you shouldn’t use Sumycin for the flu or a common cold. These are usually viral infections. Sumycin is an antibiotic that should only be used to fight against bacteria, not viruses.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/tetracycline/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tetracycline-class-oral-route-parenteral-route/description/drg-20069585
3. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3590/sumycin-oral/details
4. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682098.html
5. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/sumycin.html