Which statement about tetracycline safety in pregnancy and children?

Which statement about tetracycline safety in pregnancy and children?

• A. They can cause teeth discoloration and have no effect on bone growth.
• B. They can cause teeth discoloration and interfere with bone growth.
• C. They cause liver toxicity in all patients.
• D. They are safe in pregnancy.

Answer: (B)

Tetracyclines can cross the placenta and become incorporated into developing teeth and bones. During tooth formation, they bind to calcium in dentin and enamel, producing a permanent yellow-gray to brown discoloration. In growing bones, the drug can deposit with calcium and potentially interfere with normal bone development in the fetus or young child. Because of these effects, they are avoided in pregnancy and in young children. Liver toxicity is not a universal outcome for everyone, and saying they’re safe in pregnancy ignores the established risks. So the statement that they can cause teeth discoloration and interfere with bone growth is the best choice.

Tetracyclines can cross the placenta and become incorporated into developing teeth and bones. During tooth formation, they bind to calcium in dentin and enamel, producing a permanent yellow-gray to brown discoloration. In growing bones, the drug can deposit with calcium and potentially interfere with normal bone development in the fetus or young child. Because of these effects, they are avoided in pregnancy and in young children. Liver toxicity is not a universal outcome for everyone, and saying they’re safe in pregnancy ignores the established risks. So the statement that they can cause teeth discoloration and interfere with bone growth is the best choice.