IDIOT

Tetracyclines have the broadest spectrum of antimicrobial activity, effective against a remarkably wide variety of organisms.

Tetracyclines inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by blocking the attachment of the transfer RNA-amino acid to the ribosome. More precisely they are inhibitors of the codon-anticodon interaction. Tetracyclines can also inhibit protein synthesis in the host, but are less likely to reach the concentration required because eukaryotic cells do not have a tetracycline uptake mechanism.

Tetracycline can have toxic effects on development of bone. Therefore, tetracyclines are generally not recommended during pregnancy or nursing. Tetracyclines may cause discoloration of teeth if used in children less than 8 years of age.