Tetracycline Dosage Guide: What You Need to Know

If your doctor prescribed tetracycline, you probably wonder how much to take and for how long. Getting the dose right helps the medicine work and cuts down on side effects. Below is a straightforward rundown of the most common dosing schedules, what to watch for, and a few practical tips you can use right away.

Standard Adult Dosing

For most adult infections, doctors start with 250 mg taken every 6 hours (four times a day) or 500 mg every 12 hours (twice a day). The exact amount depends on the type of infection – skin, acne, respiratory, or urinary tract infections each have their own recommended range.

Typical treatment lengths run from 7 days up to 14 days. Some chronic conditions, like acne, may need the drug for several weeks or even months, but only under a doctor’s close watch.

Always swallow the tablets with a full glass of water. This helps the medicine reach your stomach quickly and reduces irritation.

Special Situations and Safety Tips

Kids get a weight‑based dose, usually 25‑50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, split into 2–4 doses. Never give a child tetracycline without a pediatrician’s order – the drug can affect growing teeth and bones.

Take tetracycline on an empty stomach: at least one hour before or two hours after meals. Dairy products, calcium supplements, antacids, and iron can bind to the drug and lower its effectiveness.

Common side effects include upset stomach, nausea, and mild skin sensitivity to sunlight. If you notice a rash or a severe reaction, stop the medication and call your doctor right away.

Pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid tetracycline unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. The drug can cross the placenta and appear in breast milk, potentially harming the baby.

Finally, finish the full course even if you start feeling better. Stopping early can let the bacteria survive and become resistant, making future infections harder to treat.

Keeping these points in mind will help you get the most out of tetracycline while staying safe. If anything feels off or you’re unsure about the schedule, reach out to your pharmacist or doctor – they’re there to help.