What side effect of Tetracycline should be cautioned against in children under 12 years of age?

What side effect of Tetracycline should be cautioned against in children under 12 years of age?

• A. Hearing impairment
• B. Stunted growth
• C. Staining of the teeth
• D. Jaundice

Answer: (C)

Tetracycline is known to bind to calcium in developing teeth and bones, leading to one of its most significant side effects: staining of the teeth. This side effect is particularly concerning in children under 12 years of age, as their teeth are still developing. The discoloration typically appears as yellow, brown, or gray stains and occurs because tetracycline becomes incorporated into the enamel of the teeth during their formation. This is why it is crucial to avoid administering tetracycline to young children and pregnant women who are in their second and third trimesters, as it can affect fetal tooth development as well. This potential for staining is well-documented in medical literature, making it a key consideration for healthcare providers when prescribing medications in this class to younger patients.

Tetracycline is known to bind to calcium in developing teeth and bones, leading to one of its most significant side effects: staining of the teeth. This side effect is particularly concerning in children under 12 years of age, as their teeth are still developing. The discoloration typically appears as yellow, brown, or gray stains and occurs because tetracycline becomes incorporated into the enamel of the teeth during their formation.

This is why it is crucial to avoid administering tetracycline to young children and pregnant women who are in their second and third trimesters, as it can affect fetal tooth development as well. This potential for staining is well-documented in medical literature, making it a key consideration for healthcare providers when prescribing medications in this class to younger patients.