Description
Active Ingredient
Tetra Capsule 500 mg contains 500 mg of tetracycline hydrochloride, a broad-spectrum antibiotic that functions by preventing bacteria from growing and multiplying. Its efficacy across various bacterial species makes it a versatile treatment option.
Form and Packaging
Tetra Capsule 500 mg is supplied in capsule form, and each package typically consists of 16 capsules.
Uses of Tetra Capsule 500 Mg
Tetra Capsule 500 mg is prescribed to treat several bacterial infections. Some of its key applications include:
- Respiratory Tract Infections: Conditions such as pneumonia and bronchitis can be treated with tetracycline.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): It is commonly used to treat UTIs caused by bacteria like Escherichia coli.
- Skin Infections: Tetracycline is effective in treating severe acne and other skin infections.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): It can be prescribed for the treatment of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
- Gastrointestinal Infections: Infections like cholera respond well to this medication.
- Other Bacterial Infections: Tetra Capsule 500 mg is also effective in treating less common infections such as anthrax, tularemia, and brucellosis.
Special Uses
Tetracycline may also be combined with other medications to treat stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: The typical dosage for adults is 500 mg, taken two to four times daily.
Children Over 8 Years: The dosage for children is based on weight and medical condition, with a standard range of 25-50 mg/kg daily, divided into 2-4 doses.
How to Take the Medication
- Take Tetra Capsule 500 mg on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after a meal.
- Consume a full glass of water with each dose to prevent esophageal irritation.
- Avoid lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking the medication.
- Avoid taking it close to bedtime, as this may increase the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.
Interactions
Tetra Capsule 500 mg’s absorption can be reduced by products containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, iron, or zinc, including antacids and certain supplements. It is recommended to wait at least two to three hours between taking tetracycline and such products.
Side Effects
Tetra Capsule 500 mg, like all medications, may cause side effects. The table below outlines common and serious side effects:
| Type | Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, mouth sores, dizziness |
| Black hairy tongue, sore throat, headache | |
| Serious Side Effects | Nail discoloration, muscle pain, difficulty swallowing |
| Tooth discoloration, kidney problems, numbness in extremities | |
| New signs of infection, hearing changes, liver disease symptoms | |
| Easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness |
Precautions
Before Taking Tetra Capsule 500 Mg
Inform your healthcare provider if you have any history of liver or kidney disease. Tetracycline can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, making it more susceptible to sunburn, so avoid prolonged sun exposure or tanning beds.
Allergies
Do not use Tetra Capsule 500 mg if you are allergic to tetracycline or related antibiotics.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
- During Pregnancy: Tetracycline is generally not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby, potentially leading to tooth discoloration or impaired bone development.
- Breastfeeding: The medication can pass into breast milk, which may also affect a nursing baby’s bone and tooth development.
Can Tetra Capsule 500 Mg Be Taken With Other Medications?
It is essential to consider drug interactions when taking Tetra Capsule 500 mg. The following are key interaction points to note:
- Antacids and Supplements: Products containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or iron can reduce the absorption of tetracycline. These should be taken at least two to three hours apart.
- Blood Thinners: Tetracycline may increase the effectiveness of anticoagulants such as warfarin.
- Retinoids: Medications like isotretinoin and acitretin may interact negatively with tetracycline.
- Digoxin: Tetracycline can alter the metabolism of digoxin, potentially causing harmful effects.
Always consult with your healthcare provider about the medications and supplements you are taking to ensure safety and efficacy.
Can Tetra Capsule 500 Mg Be Taken During Pregnancy?
Risks to the Unborn Baby
Tetracycline, the active ingredient in Tetra Capsule 500 mg, can cause permanent tooth discoloration and affect bone development in the fetus. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.
General Recommendation
Avoid using Tetra Capsule 500 mg during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while on this medication, consult your doctor immediately to discuss the risks and benefits.
Breastfeeding
Tetracycline can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant’s developing teeth and bones. Always seek medical advice before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Benefits of Tetra Capsule 500 Mg
Tetra Capsule 500 mg offers several advantages in the treatment of bacterial infections:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Effective Against Various Infections | Treats respiratory, urinary tract, skin, and sexually transmitted infections |
| Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic | Effective against a wide variety of bacteria |
| Prevention of Bacterial Growth | Inhibits bacterial multiplication and prevents the spread of infections |
| Combination Therapy | Can be used with other drugs to treat stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori |
| Acne Treatment | Commonly used to treat severe acne |
| Alternative to Penicillin | Suitable for patients allergic to penicillin |
Can Tetra Capsule 500 Mg Be Used in Children?
Children Under 8 Years
Tetra Capsule 500 mg is generally not recommended for children younger than 8 years of age, as it may cause permanent tooth discoloration and affect bone development.
Children Over 8 Years
For children over 8 years, the dosage depends on weight and medical condition. Always follow a healthcare provider’s guidance when administering tetracycline to children.
Can Tetra Capsule 500 Mg Be Taken With Food?
For optimal absorption, Tetra Capsule 500 mg should be taken on an empty stomach. However, if stomach upset occurs, consult your healthcare provider, who may recommend taking the medication with food.
Avoid dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, as they can interfere with the medication’s absorption. Similarly, antacids and mineral supplements should be taken two to three hours apart from tetracycline.
Can Tetra Capsule 500 Mg Be Taken With Herbal Supplements?
Herbal supplements may also interfere with the effectiveness of Tetra Capsule 500 mg. Here are some key considerations:
- St. John’s Wort: This herb can increase the metabolism of tetracycline, reducing its effectiveness.
- Echinacea and Ginseng: These supplements may either interact with tetracycline or affect the immune system.
Always consult your healthcare provider before combining herbal supplements with Tetra Capsule 500 mg.
Precious –
if am pregnant can I take it
Medical Guidance Center –
Hello Precious, this is Wikikenko.
Thank you for your question. As you noted, it’s always best to consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy. Tetracycline-class drugs like those in Tetra Capsule 500mg are generally not recommended as studies have shown they can stain the fetus’s developing teeth and potentially impact bone growth. The risks would need to be carefully weighed against the benefits if treatment is truly necessary. The best thing is to discuss your individual medical history, current health concerns, and treatment options with your healthcare provider. They can help you make the most informed decision for your situation. Please don’t hesitate to ask your doctor any other questions. The health of both mother and baby is the top priority.