Tetracycline

By PetMD Editorial

Published: November 7, 2012

Drug Info

Common Name: Panmycin®, Polytic®, Achromycin®, Sumycin®, Tetralan®
Drug Type: Broad spectrum antibiotic
Used For: Bacterial infections
Species: Dogs, Cats
Administered: Tablets, Capsules, Oral liquid
How Dispensed: Prescription only
FDA Approved: Yes

General Description

Tetracycline is a broad spectrum antibiotic. It is used to fight bacterial infections in dogs and cats. Tetracycline is used to treat many different bacterial infections including, leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis, mycoplasma, psittacosis, and tick borne diseases including Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

How It Works

Tetracycline binds to specific cell parts (ribosomes) of the bacteria and inhibit the protein synthesis, thus not allowing the bacteria to grow and divide. The process of shutting the protien synthesis down is not rapid. For this reason treatments using Tetracycline are generally termed as a long term treatment. It takes some time after the process is shut down until NSAIDs work by reducing the enzyme COX-2. These enzymes are involved in the formation of prostaglandins, which cause swelling and inflammation. Reduction of these factors reduce the pain and inflammation your pet experiences.

Storage Information

Store in a tightly sealed container at room temperature.

Missed Dose?

If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your pet two doses at once.