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Tetracycline Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tetracycline

[ˌtɛtrəˈsaɪkliːn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical usage

Tetracycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is effective against a wide variety of bacteria. It works by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacterial cells, thereby stopping their growth and reproduction. This makes it a common choice for treating infections such as acne, respiratory tract infections, and urinary tract infections. However, tetracycline is not effective against viral infections. It is important to complete the prescribed course even if symptoms improve to prevent antibiotic resistance.

Synonyms

antibacterial, antibiotic, drug.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor prescribed tetracycline for my skin infection.
  • Tetracycline can be used to treat certain types of pneumonia.
  • Due to its broad spectrum, tetracycline is often used in treating acne.
  • Patients should avoid dairy products while taking tetracycline.

Translations

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Origin of 'tetracycline'

The term 'tetracycline' is derived from the Greek prefix 'tetra-', meaning 'four', which refers to the four fused rings that make up the chemical structure of the antibiotic. The suffix '-cycline' comes from the name of a related compound, 'chloamphenicol'. Tetracycline was first discovered in the early 1940s by a team of researchers at the University of Illinois, led by Dr. Benjamin M. Duggar, from a species of Streptomyces bacteria. It quickly gained prominence as one of the first broad-spectrum antibiotics available for medical use. Its efficacy against a variety of bacterial infections made it a pivotal drug in the treatment of infectious diseases during the mid-20th century. Over the decades, its use has been complicated by the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, prompting health authorities to encourage prudent use. Despite this, tetracycline remains an important tool in the arsenal of modern medicine.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,804, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.