Final answer:
Tetracyclines, a class of broad-spectrum antibiotics, can cause side effects such as phototoxicity, permanent teeth discoloration, and liver toxicity. They are not recommended for pregnant women, children under 8, or individuals with liver or kidney diseases. Severe effects can include heart dysfunction, testicular atrophy, prostate enlargement, and depression.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tetracycline Side Effects
Tetracyclines are a class of antibiotics used to treat various bacterial infections. They work by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, but side effects of tetracyclines can limit their use. Some noted side effects include phototoxicity, which can lead to skin damage under sunlight, permanent discoloration of developing teeth, and liver toxicity, especially at high doses or in individuals with kidney impairment. Severe and sometimes irreversible side effects may also occur, such as impaired heart function, testicular atrophy, prostate enlargement, and depression.
Contraindications
Not everyone can safely take tetracyclines. Groups at risk include pregnant women and children under the age of 8, due to the potential for tooth discoloration; those with liver or kidney diseases may experience increased toxicity. Certain severe side effects such as the increased risk of colon cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, and macular degeneration have also been associated with tetracycline use.
Summary of Mechanism
Tetracyclines inhibit the codon-anticodon interaction during protein synthesis in bacteria. While they can also inhibit protein synthesis in the host, this is less likely due to the absence of a tetracycline uptake mechanism in eukaryotic cells.