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Blepharitis - Management
What issues should I consider before prescribing a tetracycline?
- Do not use tetracyclines in:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, or children younger than 12 years of age. Tetracyclines are deposited in the teeth and bones of the unborn or developing child.
- People with renal failure, with the exception of doxycycline. Tetracycline, oxytetracycline, and lymecycline are excreted renally; doxycycline is a safer option in this group.
- Avoid use of doxycycline if the person is likely to be exposed to excessive sunlight (e.g. working outdoors or on holiday in a sunny climate) or ultraviolet light from another source, owing to the risk of photosensitivity [ABPI Medicines Compendium, 2006a]. Photosensitivity may also occur with tetracycline, oxytetracycline, and lymecycline, but probably to a lesser extent [Wolf, 2002].
[BNF 54, 2007]
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