MANUFACTURER
Teva
WAREHOUSE
International Warehouse 2
SUBSTANCE
Doxycycline
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What is doxycycline? Doxycycline is an antibiotic from the tetracycline class that combats bacterial infections in the body.
It is prescribed for a variety of bacterial infections, including acne, urinary tract infections, intestinal infections, respiratory infections, eye infections, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and gum disease (periodontitis), among others.
Additionally, doxycycline is effective in treating blemishes, bumps, and acne-like lesions related to rosacea, but it does not alleviate facial redness caused by this condition.
Certain formulations of doxycycline are also utilized for preventing malaria, managing anthrax, and addressing infections resulting from mites, ticks, or lice.
Important information Do not take doxycycline if you have a known allergy to any tetracycline antibiotic.
Doxycycline should be used in children under 8 years old only for severe or life-threatening conditions, as it can lead to permanent yellowing or graying of their teeth.
Using doxycycline while pregnant may harm the unborn baby or cause lasting tooth discoloration as the child grows.
Before starting this medication, inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of: - liver disease - kidney disease - asthma or sulfite allergy - increased intracranial pressure - or if you are taking isotretinoin, seizure medications, or blood thinners like warfarin.
If you are being treated for chlamydia, your doctor may conduct tests to rule out gonorrhea or other sexually transmitted infections.
Doxycycline can impact the development of teeth and bones in a developing fetus when taken during pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or become pregnant during treatment.
This medication may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, so consult your doctor about using non-hormonal contraceptive methods (like condoms or diaphragms) to prevent pregnancy.
Doxycycline can also transfer to breast milk and potentially affect an infant's bone and tooth development, although the extent of this absorption is unclear. It is advised not to breast-feed while taking this medication.
Doxycycline is not recommended for children, as it may cause permanent yellowing or graying of teeth in those under 8. Use in children should be limited to serious conditions like anthrax or Rocky Mountain spotted fever, where the benefits of treatment may outweigh potential risks to dental development.
How should I take doxycycline? Take doxycycline strictly as prescribed by your doctor, following all instructions on your prescription label. Do not alter the dosage or duration of the medication.
Consume doxycycline with a full glass of water and ensure you stay well-hydrated during your course of treatment.
Most doxycycline brands can be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs, although variations among brands regarding food instructions may exist.
Oracea should be taken on an empty stomach at least one hour before or two hours after a meal.
To aid swallowing, you can open a regular capsule or break a tablet to mix the medication with a spoonful of applesauce. Consume immediately without chewing, and drink a full glass (8 ounces) of cool water right after.
Do not crush, break, or open a delayed-release capsule or tablet. Always swallow these whole.
Some doxycycline tablets may need to be split to achieve the correct dose, so follow your healthcare provider's guidance.
Always measure liquid doses with the provided dosing syringe, special measuring spoon, or medication cup. If you don't have a measuring tool, ask your pharmacist for one.
If you are using doxycycline as a malaria preventive, begin taking it 1-2 days before entering a malaria-prone area. Continue daily during your stay and for at least four weeks afterward. To further prevent malaria, use protective clothing, insect repellent, and mosquito nets.
Complete the full course of prescribed doxycycline, even if symptoms improve before the infection is fully resolved. Skipping doses can lead to antibiotic resistance and will not treat viral infections like the flu or the common cold.
If you need surgery, inform your surgeon that you are taking doxycycline.
Store the medication at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.
Dispose of any unused doxycycline after the expiration date on the label has passed, as using expired medication could harm your kidneys.