Doxycycline

Doxycyline is a synthetic broad-spectrum antibiotic derived from tetracycline and used to treat many different bacterial infections, such as infections of 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 esophagus. 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 special measuring spoon. Never take this drug if it is expired as it may damage your kidney.

Precautions
Usage of Doxycycline during growth of teeth may result in their permanent color change. Infections caused by staphylococcus, Escherichia, Shigella, is possible only after sensibility 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 a regular monitoring of peripheral blood cell content, liver function tests and determination of nitrogen and urea in serum.

Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to Doxycycline and tetracyclines, pregnancy (second half of the term), breastfeeding, infancy (for children younger than 9 y.o.), 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 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 Doxycyline absorption maybe slowered. Minerals (such as calcium or iron) or with 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 of 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.