Final answer:
Tetracycline is an antibiotic that should be avoided during pregnancy and not given to children under 8 due to risks of teeth discoloration and bone growth issues. It should also not be administered with dairy products as this can reduce its efficacy. Tetracycline is a protein synthesis inhibitor that targets the 30S ribosomal subunit in bacteria.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the antibiotic tetracycline, there are several important factors to keep in mind. First, tetracycline should be avoided during pregnancy, as it can cause permanent discoloration of the developing teeth in the fetus and potentially affect bone growth. Additionally, tetracycline is not safe for use in children under 8 years old for the same reasons, making answer (c) incorrect. Tetracycline's action as a protein synthesis inhibitor can lead to phototoxicity, liver toxicity in high doses or in patients with kidney impairment, and permanent discoloration of developing teeth.
Another key point is to avoid administering tetracycline with dairy products, as calcium and other divalent cations in the dairy products can bind to tetracycline and reduce its absorption, making it less effective. Tetracycline binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit in bacteria, blocking the binding of transfer RNA and thereby inhibiting protein synthesis, which is a critical process for bacterial growth and replication. This mode of action also explains why tetracycline does not affect protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells such as those of humans, as they lack the uptake mechanism required for tetracycline to reach inhibitory concentrations within the cells.
As for interactions with other medications, tetracycline is not specifically contraindicated with antihypertensive medications, making option (b) incorrect. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider for potential drug interactions when prescribed tetracycline or any other medication.