What Is Tetracycline?

Potential Side Effects

Patients who take tetracycline frequently report side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, swelling of the tongue, and sore throat. Some individuals have also experienced a black or hairy tongue while using tetracycline, and both vaginal and rectal itching have been reported as well. Patients should let their doctor know if these side effects persist or increase in severity. Potentially serious side effects from tetracycline use could include facial swelling, breathing difficulties, dizziness, chest pain, and hives. Other serious side effects such as blurred vision, loss of vision, and unusual bruising and bleeding have occurred.

All serious side effects should be reported to the patient's doctor immediately, and it may be necessary to seek emergency medical care for these. Individuals who have taken tetracycline could notice a return of chills, fever, and other signs of infection during their treatment with this medication. Some patients may have a fever, stomach cramps, and watery or bloody stools for several months after tetracycline is discontinued. It may be beneficial to keep a symptom diary that records all side effects, as this information will help guide doctors in their treatment plans. If side effects are troublesome or serious, patients should mention this to their doctor; it may be possible to take an alternative medication with fewer side effects.

Read more to uncover the precautions to remember when taking tetracycline next.