Vibramycin

doxycycline

Brand(s):

• Doxy-1 Doxicip Doxrid

Manufacturer:

• Astra Lifecare India Pvt. Ltd. / Cipla Limited / Ridley Life Science Pvt. Ltd

Disease(s):

• Acne / Amoeba Infections / Malaria

Known as:

• Adoxa / Alodox / Atridox / Bio-Tab / Doryx / Doxy / Doxy-Tabs / Doxychel / Monodox / NutriDox / Oracea / Oraxyl / Periostat / Vibra-Tabs / Vibramycin

Doxycycline Hyclate Capsules

What is Doxycycline Hyclate?

Doxycycline hyclate is a tetracycline antibiotic. It works by either killing bacteria or preventing their growth. This versatile medication treats a wide range of infections, including:

• Dental infections
• Skin infections
• Respiratory infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Acne
• Lyme disease
• Malaria
• Certain sexually transmitted infections

It's important to remember that doxycycline only works against bacteria; it won't help with viral infections like the common cold or flu.

Important Information for Your Healthcare Provider

Before starting doxycycline, it's crucial to inform your doctor or healthcare professional about your medical history, particularly if you have any of the following:

• Liver disease
• Prolonged sun exposure (e.g., working outdoors)
• Stomach problems such as colitis
• Allergies to doxycycline, other tetracycline antibiotics, medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding

This information helps your doctor determine if doxycycline is the right choice for you and ensures your safety.

How to Use Doxycycline Hyclate

Take doxycycline by mouth with a full glass of water. Always follow the dosage instructions provided on your prescription label. Ideally, take it on an empty stomach, but if it causes stomach upset, you can take it with food. Maintain consistent dosing intervals. Do not increase the dosage or frequency on your own. Complete the entire course of medication, even if you feel better before finishing all the prescribed doses. Skipping doses or stopping early can lead to treatment failure and potential complications.

Parents should consult their pediatrician before giving doxycycline to children. While it might be prescribed for children as young as 8 in specific cases, precautions apply.

Overdose: In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention by contacting a poison control center or emergency room.

Personal Use Only: This medication is prescribed specifically for you and should not be shared with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Never double up on doses.

Potential Drug Interactions

Doxycycline can interact with several other medications. Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including:

• Antacids
• Barbiturates
• Birth control pills
• Bismuth subsalicylate
• Carbamazepine
• Methoxyflurane
• Other antibiotics
• Phenytoin
• Iron-containing vitamins
• Warfarin

Also mention any use of caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs, as these can impact the effectiveness of doxycycline. Always consult your doctor before starting or stopping any medication.

Monitoring While Taking Doxycycline

Report any persistent or worsening symptoms to your doctor.

Do not self-treat diarrhea with over-the-counter remedies. Contact your doctor if diarrhea lasts longer than two days or is severe and watery.

Avoid taking doxycycline just before bed, as it may not dissolve properly in a lying-down position and can cause throat irritation. Drink plenty of fluids to help minimize throat discomfort.

Doxycycline increases sun sensitivity. Minimize sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen when outdoors. Avoid tanning beds or sun lamps.

Doxycycline can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Consider using an alternative or additional form of contraception while taking this medication.

If treating a sexually transmitted infection, abstain from sexual contact until completing the entire course of treatment. Your partner may also require treatment.

Avoid antacids and products containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or iron for four hours before and two hours after taking doxycycline.

If using doxycycline for malaria prevention, continue to take precautions against mosquito bites using protective clothing, insect repellents, mosquito netting, and staying in screened areas.

Possible Side Effects

Report to your doctor immediately:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, facial swelling, lip swelling, tongue swelling)
• Difficulty breathing
• Fever
• Genital or rectal itching
• Painful swallowing
• Skin redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening (including inside the mouth)
• Severe stomach pain or cramps
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Extreme weakness or fatigue
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)

Side effects that usually don't require medical attention (but report to your doctor if they persist or bother you):

• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting

Storage

Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature, below 86°F (30°C). Protect from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date. Using expired medication can be harmful.