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Capsule

Tetram 250 mg Capsule

Generic: Tetracycline Hydrochloride

Manufacturer: Modern Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Therapeutic class: Tetracycline antibiotic

What is Tetram?

Tetram 250 mg capsule by Modern Pharmaceuticals Ltd. is an antibacterial medicine that contains Tetracycline Hydrochloride. In Bangladesh, it is mainly used on a doctor’s prescription to treat infections caused by susceptible bacteria, and some forms may be used for skin or eye infections when appropriate.

Tetracycline Hydrochloride works by stopping bacteria from making essential proteins, which helps prevent their growth. A key caution is that it should not be used in pregnancy or in young children unless a specialist specifically advises it, because tetracyclines can affect developing teeth and bones.

Indications

  • Treatment of infections caused by bacteria known or strongly suspected to be susceptible to tetracycline.
  • Acne vulgaris when antibiotic treatment is appropriate.
  • Certain respiratory, urinary, genital, skin, soft-tissue, intestinal, and eye infections due to susceptible organisms, as directed by a doctor.
  • Some specific infections such as chlamydial infections, rickettsial infections, cholera, brucellosis with other medicines, and trachoma, where recommended by local or specialist guidance.

Dosage & Administration

The dose, route, and duration depend on the infection being treated, the dosage form, age, kidney and liver function, and local antibiotic guidance. Oral tetracycline is usually taken in divided doses and should generally be taken with a full glass of water, preferably on an empty stomach, unless the prescriber advises otherwise. Eye or skin preparations should be applied only to the affected area as prescribed. Complete the full prescribed course and do not change the dose or stop early without medical advice.

Side Effects

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort, and loss of appetite.
  • Mouth or throat irritation, oesophageal irritation or ulceration, especially if taken without enough water or just before lying down.
  • Photosensitivity, causing sunburn more easily.
  • Skin rash, itching, or allergic reactions.
  • Vaginal or oral thrush and other overgrowth of non-susceptible organisms.
  • Permanent tooth discoloration and effects on bone growth if used during pregnancy or in young children.
  • Rare but serious effects include severe allergic reaction, severe skin reactions, liver problems, kidney-related worsening in susceptible patients, raised intracranial pressure with headache or vision changes, and severe or persistent diarrhoea that may indicate antibiotic-associated colitis.

Precautions & Warnings

Use Tetracycline Hydrochloride carefully in people with kidney or liver disease, a history of allergy to tetracycline antibiotics, photosensitivity, swallowing problems, or a tendency to oesophageal irritation. Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and use sun protection. Oral doses should be taken with plenty of water and not immediately before lying down. Do not use leftover antibiotics or share them with others. Use this medicine under the guidance of a registered doctor or pharmacist.

Drug Interactions

  • Antacids, calcium, magnesium, aluminium, iron, zinc, bismuth, and sucralfate can reduce absorption of oral tetracycline; separate administration as advised by a clinician.
  • Milk and dairy products may reduce absorption of some oral tetracycline preparations.
  • Retinoids such as isotretinoin or acitretin may increase the risk of raised intracranial pressure.
  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants may have increased effect; monitoring may be needed.
  • Methoxyflurane should be avoided because serious kidney toxicity has been reported with tetracyclines.
  • Penicillin-type antibiotics may be less effective when used together in some situations; combine only if prescribed.
  • Some anti-seizure medicines and other enzyme-inducing drugs may reduce tetracycline levels; the prescriber should review all medicines and supplements.

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to tetracycline, other tetracycline-class antibiotics, or any component of the product.
  • Pregnancy, unless a specialist determines there is no safer suitable alternative.
  • Children under 8 years of age, except in exceptional situations under specialist advice.
  • Significant kidney impairment for systemic tetracycline, unless specifically assessed and prescribed by a specialist.
  • Use with methoxyflurane anaesthesia.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Tetracycline Hydrochloride is generally avoided during pregnancy because it can affect fetal bone development and cause permanent discoloration of the child’s teeth. It is also generally avoided during breastfeeding unless a doctor decides that the expected benefit outweighs the risk, because small amounts may pass into breast milk and safer alternatives are often available.

Storage Conditions

Store at room temperature, away from excess heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Keep the container tightly closed and out of the reach of children. Do not use expired tetracycline products, as degraded tetracycline may be harmful. Follow any specific storage instructions on the product label, especially for eye or skin preparations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take Tetram with milk or antacids?

Milk, dairy products, antacids, and supplements containing calcium, iron, magnesium, aluminium, zinc, or bismuth can reduce absorption of oral tetracycline. Take them separately as advised by your doctor or pharmacist.

Why should Tetram not usually be used in pregnancy or young children?

Tetracyclines can affect developing bones and may cause permanent discoloration of teeth. For this reason, they are generally avoided during pregnancy and in children under 8 years unless a specialist specifically recommends it.

What should I do if I get diarrhoea while taking Tetram?

Mild diarrhoea can occur with antibiotics. However, if diarrhoea is severe, persistent, watery, or contains blood, or if you have fever or abdominal pain, contact a doctor promptly and do not self-treat with anti-diarrhoeal medicines unless advised.

Can I stop Tetram when I feel better?

Do not stop early or change the dose without medical advice. Completing the prescribed course helps treat the infection properly and reduces the chance of the bacteria becoming harder to treat.

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