Tetracycline, while effective against some UTIs, can cause side effects. Always discuss potential risks with your doctor before starting treatment.
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea and vomiting: These are relatively frequent, often mild, and may subside as treatment continues. Consider taking the medication with food to minimize this. Diarrhea: Changes in gut flora can lead to diarrhea. If severe or persistent, contact your doctor immediately. Sun Sensitivity: Tetracycline increases sun sensitivity. Use sunscreen with a high SPF and limit sun exposure. Yeast Infections: Tetracycline can disrupt the balance of your vaginal flora, potentially leading to yeast infections.
Less Common but Serious Side Effects:
- Increased intracranial pressure (pseudotumor cerebri): This rare but serious side effect is more likely with high doses. Report headaches, vision changes, or dizziness immediately. Liver problems: Monitor for signs of liver damage like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) or dark urine. Kidney problems: This is more common in patients with pre-existing kidney issues. Your doctor will monitor kidney function. Tooth discoloration (in children): Avoid tetracycline for children younger than 8 years old.
Drug Interactions:
Tetracycline interacts with several medications. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking, including:
- Antacids: These can reduce tetracycline absorption. Calcium supplements and dairy products: Avoid taking these concurrently with tetracycline. Oral contraceptives: Tetracycline may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Warfarin (blood thinner): Tetracycline may enhance warfarin’s effects. Methotrexate: Tetracycline can increase the toxicity of methotrexate.
This information is not exhaustive. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice on potential side effects and interactions specific to your health status and medications.
