Tetracycline

Chemical Structure / Formula of Tetracycline

• Formula: C22H24N2O8
• Core Structure: Four fused hydronaphthacene rings with various functional groups.

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 of Tetracycline

• 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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