Tetracycline hydrochloride is an antibiotic medication used to treat various bacterial infections.
Chemical formula: C22H24N2O8·HCl
Properties:
- Yellow crystalline powder
- Soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol
- Stable in acidic solutions, but unstable in alkaline solutions
Mechanism of action:
- Inhibits protein synthesis in bacteria by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit
- Effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
Uses:
- Treatment of bacterial infections, such as:
- Respiratory tract infections (e.g., pneumonia, bronchitis)
- Skin and soft tissue infections
- Urinary tract infections
- Gonorrhea and chlamydia
- Rickettsial infections (e.g., Rocky Mountain spotted fever)
- Used in combination with other antibiotics to treat severe infections
Precautions:
- Hypersensitivity to tetracycline or other tetracycline antibiotics
- Use with caution in patients with:
- Kidney or liver disease
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- May interact with other medications, such as:
- Antacids and iron supplements (reduce absorption)
- Blood thinners and certain antibiotics (increase risk of bleeding)
Note: Tetracycline hydrochloride is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning it is effective against a wide range of bacteria. However, its use should be reserved for specific infections and used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
