Demeclocycline

Demeclocycline

Demeclocycline (pronounced as: deh-meh-kloh-sigh-kleen) is a tetracycline antibiotic used in the treatment of various bacterial infections. It is also used off-label in the treatment of hyponatremia (low sodium levels) associated with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH).

Etymology

The term "Demeclocycline" is derived from the Greek words "deme" meaning "bond" or "chain", and "cycline" referring to the cyclic nature of the compound. It is a derivative of the tetracycline family of antibiotics, which were first discovered in the 1940s.

Usage

Demeclocycline is primarily used to treat infections caused by bacteria, including pneumonia, acne, and certain sexually transmitted diseases. It is also used to treat hyponatremia in patients with SIADH, a condition where the body produces too much antidiuretic hormone, leading to water retention and low sodium levels.

Mechanism of Action

Demeclocycline works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria by preventing the synthesis of essential proteins required by the bacteria to carry out vital functions. In the treatment of SIADH, it reduces the kidney's response to antidiuretic hormone, thereby increasing the excretion of water and correcting hyponatremia.

Side Effects

Common side effects of demeclocycline include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and photosensitivity. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as hepatotoxicity (liver damage) and nephrotoxicity (kidney damage).

Related Terms

• Tetracycline
• Antibiotic
• Hyponatremia
• Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone
• Bacteria
• Pneumonia
• Acne
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Photosensitivity
• Hepatotoxicity
• Nephrotoxicity

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Demeclocycline
• Wikipedia's article - Demeclocycline

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