For some reason, so many people believe tetracycline, the famous "red and yellow capsule," cures all diseases. I know a few persons who always have the drug in their bags, ready to give to anyone who complains of abdominal pain, cramps or diarrhea. What if I told you, tetracycline causes diarrhea?

Tetracycline is an antibiotic and because almost anyone in Nigeria can buy it over the counter, it has become horribly abused. Tetracycle is a broad spectrum antibiotic, meaning it can be used for the treatment of a wide range of infections...just not what it is commonly abused for.

It is medically prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections in the respiratory tract (airways), urinary tract and skin. It is also used in combination with other drugs for treatment of other infections such as stomach ulcer, and cholera. It does not stop diarrhea and may even worsen it! Actually, diarrhea is the commonest side effect of tetracycline! And nowhere on the label, do the manufacturers recommend it for treatment of diarrhea.

Abusing antibiotics lead to drug resistance. The danger is when you genuinely have an infection that requires that group of drug, it will fail to work. This sounds simple but it is a potentially dangerous situation.

Please Note:
Tetracycline should not be taken by pregnant women because it may affect bone formation in the fetus/unborn baby.
Tetracycline should not be be taken by nursing mothers as it may affect bone development in infants and result in permanent yellow staining of the teeth.

Always seek guidance and do not self medicate.
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