Tetracycline skin ointment
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What is tetracycline skin ointment?
TETRACYCLINE (Achromycin®) is an antibiotic. Tetracycline ointment stops the growth of certain bacteria that cause skin infections from minor cuts, burns, and wounds. Generic tetracycline skin ointment is not available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an unusual or allergic reaction to tetracycline antibiotics, sulfites, other foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Tetracycline skin ointment is only for external use on the skin. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Wash the affected area with soap and water, rinse well and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of the ointment to the affected area as often as prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional. You can cover the area with a sterile gauze dressing (bandage). Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What drug(s) may interact with tetracycline?
• other antibiotic medicines
Do not use corticosteroid skin products (such as dexamethasone, hydrocortisone and prednisolone) at the same time as this medicine as they can cover up problems. Do not use any other skin products without telling your prescriber or health care professional. Check before starting or stopping any of your medicines or non-prescription products.
What should I watch for while taking tetracycline?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your skin does not improve in 2 weeks.
Do not get the ointment in your eyes; if you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
Do not use this medicine on deep wounds, or serious burns.
This medicine can color your skin yellow. This color will wash off with soap and water, but you should leave the medicine on the skin as long as you can. This yellow color will look worse under ultraviolet light. If you are going to a disco where they use this kind of light, either wash off the medicine before you go, or apply afterwards.
Keep the ointment off your clothes; it can stain them.
What side effects may I notice from using tetracycline?
Side effects with tetracycline skin products are rare. They include:
• skin redness, swelling, pain, blistering or peeling
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F); do not freeze. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
