Sumycin (tetracycline)
Sumycin is a type of medication that is used for the treatment of bacterial infections. It slows the growth rate of the disease causing bacteria by reducing their production of the proteins that elicit their growth in the body. It is also called a tetracycline antibiotic. The body’s defense mechanisms destroy these bacteria when their growth rate is minimal.
Dosage
The dosage of Sumycin (tetracycline) can vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the severity of the infection, and other individual factors. It is crucial to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the prescribed label. Generally, the recommended dosage for adults is 250 to 500 milligrams (mg) every 6 to 12 hours.
However, the dosage and duration of treatment may differ for different infections. For example, for certain respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, or sexually transmitted infections, the dosage may be higher or lower. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your specific needs and the type of infection being treated.
Composition
The antibiotic present in the oral tablets is tetracycline. The inactive ingredients in the tablets are:
- Pregelatinized starch
- Stearic acid
- Microcrystalline cellulose
- Povidone
- Magnesium stearate
- Hypromellose
- Anhydrous lactose
- Colourants (D&C Red No. 30, Titanium dioxide)
The ingredients in 250 mg tablets are hydroxypropyl cellulose, methylene chloride, and triacetin in addition. The 500 mg sumycin tablets have methyparaben, sodium citrate, polyparaben, potassium sorbate, propylparaben, polyethylene glycol, and xanthan gum.
Uses
Sumycin is used for treating different types of infections, including acne. The drug works by inhibiting the bacterial growth. Thus they are used to treat bacterial infections. It doesn’t work for viral infections. The efficiency of the drug decreases from overuse or misuse.
Certain stomach ulcers can be treated by consuming sumycin along with some anti-ulcer medications.
Side-effects
There are many side-effects associated with the use of sumycin that may require medical attention. Some of these side-effects are:
- Headache
- Hairy black tongue
- Itching in the rectal and genital areas
- Cramps or burning in the stomach area
- Diarrhoea
- Sore tongue and mouth
- Bulging fontanel among infants
- Loss of appetite
- Yellowing skin
- Vomiting and nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Visual changes
As a side-effect is has been seen that the pressure inside the skull (intracranial hypertension-IH) had increased, though not very often. Sometimes continuous use might give way to new yeast infection. As its benefits are observed to be much greater than its side-effects, many doctors prescribe sumycin. Severe side-effects are mostly not experienced by the patients.
Contraindications
This medicine should not be prescribed to patients who are hyper-sensitive to any of the tetracyclines. Any of the following conditions are unsafe:
- Pregnancy
- Liver problems
- Clostridium difficile bacteria related colitis
- Kidney disease
- Pseudotumor Cerebri
Pregnancy and Sumycin
Sumycin should not be prescribed to a patient during pregnancy due to its harmful effects on the unborn child. The patient should always consult the doctor whenever she plans on becoming pregnant. Sumycin might appear in the milk during breastfeeding. Therefore it is advised that the mother should not consume the drug when she is breastfeeding. The foetus is harmed by Tetracycline antibiotics. If the patient becomes pregnant, or she consumes it during pregnancy, the main hazards should be thoroughly explained by the doctor. During the time of tooth development the use of the drugs belonging to the tetracycline class might result in the discolouration of the teeth permanently. Normally this period is the last half of the pregnancy.
Some frequently asked questions about Tetracycline
What is tetracycline?
Tetracycline is an antibiotic medication used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of drugs known as tetracyclines.
What conditions are typically treated with tetracycline?
Tetracycline is commonly used to treat respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted infections (such as chlamydia), acne, periodontal (gum) disease, and certain types of skin infections.
How does tetracycline work?
Tetracycline works by inhibiting the growth and reproduction of bacteria. It does this by interfering with the production of proteins that are essential for bacterial growth.
How is tetracycline taken?
Tetracycline is usually taken orally in the form of capsules or tablets. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the prescribed label. It is often recommended to take tetracycline on an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after meals, with a full glass of water.
Are there any common side effects of tetracycline?
Yes, tetracycline can cause common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach upset, loss of appetite, and sensitivity to sunlight. It may also cause discoloration of teeth in children or during pregnancy. It is important to consult your doctor if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.
Can tetracycline interact with other medications?
Yes, tetracycline can interact with certain medications, including antacids, calcium supplements, iron supplements, and certain antibiotics. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
Can tetracycline be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Tetracycline is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, as it may harm the developing fetus and affect tooth and bone development. It is also not usually recommended while breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can I stop taking tetracycline if I feel better?
No, it is important to complete the full course of tetracycline treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to incomplete eradication of the bacteria and increase the risk of developing drug-resistant infections.
Are there any precautions or warnings associated with tetracycline?
Tetracycline should be used with caution in individuals with liver or kidney problems, as well as those with a history of allergies or asthma. It may also interact with certain medical conditions or affect the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. Discuss your medical history and current medications with your doctor before taking tetracycline.
How should tetracycline be stored?
Tetracycline capsules or tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep them out of reach of children and dispose of any expired or unused medication properly.
