tetracycline

Tetracycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic of the tetracycline class produced by Streptomyces bacteria. It is used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections including those affecting the respiratory tract (such as pneumonia), skin (including acne), eyes, lymphatic system, intestines, genitals and urinary tract. It is also indicated for infections spread by ticks and other vectors (e.g., plague and tularemia), as well as for anthrax and certain food poisonings in patients unable to take penicillin[1][2][3]. Tetracycline works by reversibly binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria—blocking aminoacyl tRNA from binding at the A site—and thereby inhibiting protein synthesis; it can also bind to some extent to the 50S subunit[1][6]. This action prevents bacterial growth (bacteriostatic effect). The drug may also alter bacterial cytoplasmic membranes causing leakage of intracellular contents[1]. Tetracyclines are not effective against viral infections.

Brand names

PyleraSumycinAla-TetBrodspecPanmycinTetracap

Other names

tetracycline HCltetracycline monohydrochloride4-(Dimethylamino)-1,4,4a,5,5a,6,11,12a-octahydro-3,6,10,12,-12a-pentahydroxy-6-methyl-1,11-dioxo-2-naphthacenecarboxamide monohydrochloride[8]