Doxycycline

Description

Common use
Doxycycline is a synthetic broad-spectrum antibiotic derived from tetracycline and used to treat many different bacterial infections, such as infections of the urinary tract, acne, gonorrhea, chlamydiosis, periodontitis (gum disease), blemishes, bumps, and acne-like lesions caused by rosacea.

Dosage and directions
This medication should be taken after a meal with a big glass of water to decrease irritation of the esophagus. The daily dose should be taken as a single dose or divided in two (12 hours between each one). Do not take it in larger amounts or continue to take it after the administered period. Certain brands of this medication cannot be used with dairy products. Do not crush, break, or open a delayed-release capsule; eat the pill whole. If it is an oral suspension, shake it before use and measure with a special measuring spoon. Never take this drug if it is expired, as it may damage your kidneys.

Precautions
Usage of Doxycycline during the growth of teeth may result in their permanent color change. Infections caused by staphylococcus, Escherichia, Shigella, are possible only after sensitivity to the medication is determined. Avoid exposure of your body to prolonged UV radiation during treatment and 4-5 days after it. If long treatment with this medication is prescribed, regularly monitor peripheral blood cell content, liver function tests, and determine nitrogen and urea in the serum.

Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to Doxycycline and tetracyclines, pregnancy (second half of the term), breastfeeding, infancy (for children younger than 9 years old), leucopenia, porphyria, severe liver failure.

Possible side effect
Side effects caused by Doxycycline may appear as headache, dizziness, blurred vision, fever, chills, body aches, red skin rash, pale or yellowed skin, dark-colored urine, severe pain in the upper stomach, loss of appetite, jaundice, easy bruising, or bleeding. Contact your doctor if you experience severe effects listed above.

Drug interaction
Co-administration with aluminum, magnesium, or calcium-based antacids is not recommended, as Doxycycline absorption may be slowed. Minerals (such as calcium or iron) or bismuth subsalicylate have the same effect. Doxycycline is reported to enhance the activity of warfarin. Phenytoin (Dilantin), carbamazepine (Tegretol), and barbiturates (such as phenobarbital) may enhance the metabolism of Doxycycline.

Missed dose
Never take a double dose of this medication. If it is almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed portion and continue to take the medicine according to the schedule.

Overdose
In case of serious and persistent nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, consult your doctor.

Storage
Store at room temperature between 59-77 degrees Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius), away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

Disclaimer
We provide only general information about medications, which do not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. Information on the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your healthcare adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim the reliability of this information and any mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special, or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.