Tetracyclines are contraindicated in which groups?

Tetracyclines are contraindicated in which groups?

• A. Children
• B. Pregnant or lactating women
• C. Elderly
• D. Both Children and Pregnant or lactating women

Answer: (D)

Tetracyclines bind calcium and become incorporated into mineralizing tissues, so they affect developing teeth and bones. In children, this can cause permanent tooth discoloration and enamel hypoplasia; in the fetus, these drugs cross the placenta and can deposit in developing teeth and bones, potentially impacting fetal development. They’re also excreted in breast milk, which can affect a nursing infant. For these reasons, tetracyclines are avoided in children and in pregnant or lactating women. Age alone in the elderly isn’t a contraindication; the decision rests on weighing benefits and risks, with attention to other adverse effects like photosensitivity and GI upset.

Tetracyclines bind calcium and become incorporated into mineralizing tissues, so they affect developing teeth and bones. In children, this can cause permanent tooth discoloration and enamel hypoplasia; in the fetus, these drugs cross the placenta and can deposit in developing teeth and bones, potentially impacting fetal development. They’re also excreted in breast milk, which can affect a nursing infant. For these reasons, tetracyclines are avoided in children and in pregnant or lactating women. Age alone in the elderly isn’t a contraindication; the decision rests on weighing benefits and risks, with attention to other adverse effects like photosensitivity and GI upset.