Sumycin (Tetracycline)

Do’s

• The dosage of Sumycin is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. For children older than 8 years of age, the dosage is also based on weight.
• Take Sumycin by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 2 or 4 times daily.
• Sumycin works best when taken on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
• Take each dose of Sumycin with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your healthcare provider directs you otherwise.
• Take Sumycin 2 to 3 hours before or after taking any products containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium. This includes antacids, certain forms of didanosine, vitamins/minerals, and sucralfate. The same instructions apply to dairy products, calcium-enriched juice, bismuth subsalicylate, iron, and zinc. These products can bind with tetracycline, preventing its full absorption.
• Continue to take Sumycin until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.
• If you experience any concerns or your condition lasts or gets worse, consult your healthcare provider.

Don’ts

• Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking Sumycin. For this reason, it is not recommended to take it right before bedtime.

• Gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
• Photosensitivity
• Renal effects
• Metabolic effects such as azotemia (elevated levels of nitrogenous waste products in the blood), hyperphosphatemia (elevated levels of phosphate in the blood), and metabolic acidosis (excessive acidity in the body) 

Consult with a healthcare provider if you experience any concerning or persistent side effects while taking Sumycin. They can provide guidance and determine the best course of action.

If you are allergic to tetracycline or any ingredients in Sumycin, you should not take this medication. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe reactions that require immediate medical attention.

Sumycin may interact with other medications, including cholesterol-lowering medications, isotretinoin, tretinoin, antacids, bismuth subsalicylate (e.g., Pepto-Bismol), minerals (iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium), over-the-counter vitamin and mineral supplements, blood thinners, and penicillin antibiotics. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

Sumycin is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the potential harm it may cause to the fetus. Women of childbearing age should use effective birth control while taking this medication. 

Consult with a healthcare provider before taking Sumycin while breastfeeding.

In patients with renal impairment, the dosage of Sumycin may need to be adjusted. Follow the guidance of your healthcare provider if you have any kidney-related issues.

Sumycin can increase sensitivity to sunlight or artificial UV rays, leading to sunburn-like symptoms. Take precautions such as wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen while outdoors.

This information is not exhaustive. Consult with a healthcare provider or refer to the prescribing information for comprehensive and personalized information about the warnings and precautions of Sumycin.