Comprehensive Guide to Tetracycline
Meet Veterinary Bacteriostatic Antibiotic: Tetracycline!
Tetracycline is an FDA-approved, prescription-only medication that treats cats and dogs suffering from various bacterial infections - leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis, and tick-related diseases. Tetracycline is a 500 mg oral capsule that is administered two to four times daily on an empty stomach and takes effect within one to two hours after administered.
How does Tetracycline work?
Tetracycline is a medication with one active ingredient. The tetracycline antibiotics' mechanism of action is through the bacteriostatic status. Bacteriostatic inhibits proper protein synthesis of bad bacteria growth by binding to bacterias' 30S ribosomes which are a major component of the translation and protein synthesis process of the bacteria.
How is Tetracycline 500 mg capsules administered?
Tetracycline (Hydrochloride) oral capsules are administered orally two to four times daily without food and on an empty stomach, at least one to two hours after meals or snacks. After giving the capsule orally, administer a syringe of water to prevent the risk of injury or stomach upsets.
NOTE: Make sure that the pet swallows the full capsule so as to avoid damage to the esophagus (i.e., never administer a dry pill). Also, keep fresh water accessible at all times.
What are the Tetracycline warnings of which you should be aware?
The following pets cannot be prescribed Tetracycline are those that are:
With these animals, the antibiotic can affect skeletal, tooth, and immune system development. Be wary of pets with pre-existing conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, or those that are lactating.
Tetracycline negative interactions with other drugs are certain antibiotics, antacids, neuromuscular blocking agents, or products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, or bismuth. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
What are the potential Tetracycline side effects of which you should be aware?
Tetracycline adverse effects reported are vomiting, decreased appetite, and diarrhea. Cats may experience more severe effects, such as stomach pain, fever, and hair loss. Serious side effects from long-time use can include liver toxicity, blood cell problems, thyroid problems, urinary stone formations, and light sensitivity.
Allergic reactions to the medication (e.g., hives, facial swelling, itchiness, etc.) or suspected overdose should cause immediate contact to your veterinarian's office or emergency facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Tetracycline?
Tetracycline is an FDA-approved, prescription broad-spectrum bacteriostatic antibiotic, which is used to treat dogs and cats who suffer from bacterial infections and skin conditions with some immunomodulatory properties.
Why is Tetracycline connected to stained teeth?
Tetracyclines are considered safe when used at the recommended dosages for the recommended duration of time. However, tetracyclines have been associated with serious side effects, such as tooth discoloration (yellow, gray, or brown) and skeletal growth retardation.
What is the proper Tetracycline dosage?
The usual dose of Tetracycline in dogs is 10 mg per pet pound every eight hours. The usual dose of Tetracycline in cats is nine mg per pet pound every 8 to 12 hours.
What is Tetracycline used for?
Oral tetracycline is used in dogs and cats to treat susceptible bacterial infections and infections spread through infected animals and parasites. For example, Tetracycline is used to treat leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis, and tick-related diseases, including Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and salmon poisoning.
What are the well-known Tetracycline brand names?
Well-known antibiotic Tetracycline brand names are Achromycin, Medicycline, Sumycin, and Tetracyn.
Is there a Tetracycline ointment?
Veterinary Tetracycline is found in oral capsules, tablets, and syrups. The over-the-counter topical Tetracycline ointment is used by humans for medical acne problems, for instance.
Concluding Thoughts
The most important thing that you should know about antibiotic Tetracycline is its power to protect suffering from bacterial infections, especially from tick-related diseases.
DISCLAIMER: FDA law restricts Tetracycline only on order or prescription of a licensed veterinarian for the best pet health care advice. Ask your veterinarian or consult with one of our pet care specialists at 1-800-844-1427, if this is a suitable product for your pet and your home. This informative article is not meant to substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, and professional advice from your veterinarian or other qualified professionals regarding a medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional advice due to what you may have read on our website. Our medications are FDA-approved and/or EPA regulated when and as required by law.