Demeclocycline Hydrochloride
Demeclocycline Hydrochloride is a tetracycline-class antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and skin conditions. It is also notably used off-label to manage Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH), where its side effect of reducing kidney response to ADH helps eliminate excess fluid retention.
A tetracycline antibiotic for bacterial infections that also treats SIADH by inducing nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 81993
- Generic
- Demeclocycline Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treats bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, and other areas. Commonly prescribed off-label for SIADH to reduce excessive fluid retention caused by inappropriate ADH secretion.
Functions as a bacteriostatic agent by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, inhibiting protein synthesis and preventing bacterial growth. For SIADH treatment, it induces nephrogenic diabetes insipidus by blocking ADH action on collecting ducts in the kidneys.
Causes significant photosensitivity; avoid prolonged sun exposure. Not recommended for children under 8 years or pregnant women due to effects on developing teeth and bones. Should not be taken with dairy products, antacids, or iron supplements as they reduce absorption. Regular monitoring of kidney function and electrolyte levels is recommended during SIADH treatment.
Official drug label
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy