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Tetracycline

Chemical Structure / Formula of Tetracycline

  • Formula: C22H24N2O8

  • Core Structure: Four fused hydronaphthacene rings with various functional groups.


Chemical Structure of Tetracycline
Chemical Structure of Tetracycline

Mechanism of Action

  • Binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the ribosome.

  • This inhibits protein synthesis and halts bacterial growth (bacteriostatic).

Uses

  • Broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including:

    • Rickettsial infections (Rocky Mountain spotted fever, typhus)

    • Chlamydia infections

    • Acne vulgaris

    • Brucellosis, Lyme disease, H. pylori infections

Side Effects

  • GI distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).

  • Photosensitivity (increased risk of sunburn).

  • Tooth discoloration and bone growth inhibition (avoid in pregnant women and children <8 years).

  • Hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity (rare but possible in high doses).


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