Tetracycline Dosage: What You Need to Know Before You Start

If your doctor just wrote a prescription for tetracycline, you might wonder how much to take, when to take it, and what to watch out for. Tetracycline is a common antibiotic that fights a wide range of infections, but the right dose depends on why you’re using it, your age, and your kidney function. Below you’ll find a straight‑forward guide that breaks down the usual dosing schedules and practical tips to keep you safe.

How to Determine the Right Dose

Most adults start with 250 mg to 500 mg every 6 hours. For a typical skin infection you might see 500 mg twice a day, while a respiratory infection often uses 250 mg four times daily. Kids get a lower dose based on weight—usually 30 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, split into two or three doses. If you have reduced kidney function, the doctor may cut the dose in half to avoid the drug building up in your system.

Take the pills with a full glass of water and stay upright for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the classic tetracycline side effect of throat irritation or, worse, an ulcer in the esophagus. Food can interfere with absorption, so the best rule is to take the medication an hour before or two hours after meals.

Tips for Safe Use and Common Mistakes

One big mistake is mixing tetracycline with dairy or calcium‑rich foods. Calcium binds to the drug and makes it less effective, so skip milk, cheese, and yogurt around dosing times. Antacids, iron supplements, and even some vitamins can have the same effect. If you need those, schedule them at least two hours apart from your antibiotic.

Sunlight sensitivity is another issue. Tetracycline can make your skin more prone to burns, so wear sunscreen and protective clothing if you’re outdoors for long periods. Also, limit alcohol because it can increase stomach upset.

Finish the full course, even if you feel better after a few days. Stopping early can let bacteria survive and become resistant, making future infections harder to treat. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember—unless it’s almost time for the next one, then just skip the missed dose. Never double up.

Finally, watch for signs of a serious reaction: severe headache, sudden vision changes, or a rash that spreads quickly. Those could mean a rare allergic response, and you should contact your doctor right away.

By following these dosing guidelines and safety tips, you’ll give tetracycline the best chance to clear your infection without unwanted side effects. If anything feels off, don’t hesitate to call your healthcare provider for clarification.