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What is the mineral that reduces the absorption of tetracycline when they are given together?

a. Phosphorus
b. Sodium
c. Chloride
d. Calcium

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Calcium is the mineral that reduces the absorption of tetracycline, due to the formation of insoluble complexes that decrease tetracycline's effectiveness.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mineral that reduces the absorption of tetracycline when they are given together is calcium. Tetracycline, a natural antibiotic produced by soil bacteria and a polycyclic aromatic compound, inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by obstructing the bond of the transfer RNA-amino acid to the ribosome. The integration of calcium or other divalent cations with tetracycline forms insoluble complexes that are poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in a reduction in the drug's effectiveness. Hence, calcium supplements, dairy products, or foods high in calcium should be avoided or taken at a different time than tetracycline to prevent interactions.

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