Master Tetracyclines Overview with Picmonic for Nursing RN

This class of medication works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, as they bind to ribosomal subunits within their cells. These medications don’t directly kill bacteria, but inhibit their growth, making tetracycline medications bacteriostatic.

Tetracyclines are indicated for a variety of infectious diseases, including Rickettsia, Chlamydia trachomatis, Cholera, Lyme disease, and H.pylori. An interesting fact is that demeclocycline is used to treat SIADH, which is not an infectious process.

Tetracyclines are often used for the treatment of moderate to severe acne, as they suppress growth of P. acnes.

Tetracycline antibiotics are used in patients with periodontal disease, as they help limit the growth of bacteria such as actinobacillus. Furthermore, these medications block the actions of collagenase, which destroys connective tissue and bone in the mouth.

Divalent cations like calcium and iron bind directly to tetracyclines and prevent their absorption in the small intestine, thereby decreasing effectiveness. Orally administered tetracyclines should not be taken with the consumption of foods or supplements with high amounts of divalent cations like milk, antacids, or iron by at least one or two hours.

Patients should be advised to protect themselves from excessive sunlight, as this medication leads to increased photosensitivity. Appropriate precautions include using sunscreen, wearing long-sleeved clothing and hats, as well as limiting time in the sun.