Arestin, a newly branded product of the OraPharma company, is a specialty antibiotic that attacks bacteria responsible for causing various forms of gum infections. Scientifically known as minocycline hydrochloride, Arestin is a member of the tetracycline family of antibiotics. In rare cases, patients have reported flu syndrome after taking this medication. Flu syndrome occurs when your body refuses a medication, resulting in flu-like symptoms (as opposed to an actual influenza infection); due to this condition and reported allergic reactions to Arestin, some people require alternative medications for the treatment of gum infections.
Tetracycline Based
Other tetracycline antibiotics include tetracycline hydrochloride (TH) and doxycycline (DC). These antibiotics often treat gum infections, reduce inflammation and block collagenese---a protein created from the bacteria that affects the bone and connective tissues of the mouth. Brand names of doxycycline include Oracea, Monodox, Periostat and Vibramycin. Tetracycline hydrochloride's brand names include Panmycin, Sumycin and Ala-tet.
Metronidazole, a combination of the antibiotics amoxicillin and tetracycline,
goes by the brand name Flagyl. These heavy-duty antibiotics target dangerous bacteria associated with diseases such as periodontal disease, amebic dysentery and pylori. Though used as an alternative to Arestin, it becomes necessary when other antibiotics have failed. Fortunately, patients receive Flagylis well, and it exhibits few side effects. Though still, rare, the most common side effects include stomach sensitivity and loss of appetite.
Medicines containing tetracycline have a set of warnings and side effects. Pregnant women should not take tetracycline, as it might cause harm to the fetus. Tetracycline can interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills; when taking this antibiotic, use additional birth control. Children younger than eight cannot take tetracycline; it can change the coloring of the teeth and interfere with development and growth.
Stay out of UV light (Sun or tanning beds). and never take this antibiotic after its expiration date. Expired tetracycline might cause kidney damage.
Dynacin and Minocin
Other forms of the drug Arestin include Dynacin and Minocin, which both have the active ingredient minocycline hydrochloride. Dynacin and Minocin target gum disease, acne, cholera and a plethora of other bacterial ailments. When on these medications, avoid exposure to sunlight. Possible side effects include drowsiness, headache, vomiting, diarrhea and dizziness.
Roxythromycin
Roxythromycin, an antibiotic used to treat urinary tract infections and soft tissue infection (gingivitis), provides another alternative to Arestin. The most common side effects, though rare and normally mild, involve gastrointestinal afflictions such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
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