Demeclocycline

All tetracyclines form a stable calcium complex in any bone-forming tissue; a decrease in fibula growth rate has been observed in premature human infants given in doses of 25 mg/kg/ every six hr; this reaction was shown to be reversible when the drug was discontinued

Results of animal studies indicate that tetracyclines cross the placenta, are found in fetal tissues, and can have toxic effects on the developing fetus (often related to retardation of skeletal development); evidence of embryotoxicity has been noted in animals treated early in pregnancy

The anti-anabolic action of the tetracyclines may cause an increase in BUN; while this is not a problem in those with normal renal function, in patients with significantly impaired function, higher serum levels of tetracycline may lead to azotemia, hyperphosphatemia, and acidosis; if renal impairment exists, even usual oral or parenteral doses may lead to excessive systemic accumulation of the drug and possible liver toxicity; under such conditions, lower than usual total doses are indicated and, if therapy is prolonged, serum level determinations of the drug may be advisable

Photosensitivity manifested by exaggerated sunburn reaction has been observed in some individuals taking tetracyclines; phototoxic reactions can occur in individuals taking demeclocycline, and are characterized by severe burns or exposed surfaces resulting from direct exposure of patients to sunlight during therapy with moderate or large doses of demeclocycline; patients that may be exposed to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light should be advised that this reaction can occur and treatment should be discontinued at first evidence of erythema of skin

Administration of demeclocycline hydrochloride has resulted in appearance of the diabetes insipidus syndrome (polyuria, polydipsia, and weakness) in some patients on long-term therapy; the syndrome has been shown to be nephrogenic, dose-dependent, and reversible on discontinuance of therapy; patients, who are experiencing central nervous system symptoms associated with this therapy, should be cautioned about driving vehicles or using hazardous machinery while on demeclocycline therapy

Pseudotumor cerebri (benign intracranial hypertension) in adults has been associated with use of this medication; the usual clinical manifestations are headache and blurred vision; bulging fontanels have been associated with use of tetracyclines in infants; while both of these conditions and related symptoms usually resolve soon after discontinuation of tetracycline, the possibility for permanent sequelae exists