Drug Name

Doxycycline

Drug Uses

Doxycycline is used for treating infections caused by certain bacteria. It may be used in combination with other medicines to treat certain amoeba infections. It may also be used to prevent or slow the progression of anthrax after exposure.

How Taken

Use as directed by your doctor.

• Take Doxycycline by mouth with or without food.
• Take Doxycycline on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. Taking Doxycycline at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.
• Continue to take Doxycycline event if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Doxycycline.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic. It works by slowing the growth of bacteria. Slowing bacteria growth allows the body's immune system to destroy the bacteria.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Doxycycline, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Doxycycline at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in a tightly closed container. Brief periods at temperatures of 59 to 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) are permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Doxycycline out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Doxycycline if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Doxycycline;
• you are taking acitretin, oral contraceptives (birth control pills), or penicillins (eg, amoxicillin).

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Important :

• Be sure to use Doxycycline for the full course of treatment. If you do not, the medicine may not clear up your infection completely. The bacteria could also become less sensitive to this or other medicines. This could make the infection harder to treat in the future.
• Long-term or repeated use of Doxycycline may cause a second infection. Tell your doctor if signs of a second infection occur. Your medicine may need to be changed to treat this.
• Contact your doctor right away if stomach pain or cramps, severe diarrhea, or bloody stools occur. Do not treat diarrhea without first checking with your doctor.
• Doxycycline may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Doxycycline. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.
• Hormonal birth control (e.g., birth control pills) may not work as well while you are using Doxycycline . To prevent pregnancy, use an extra form of birth control (e.g., condoms).
• Lab tests may be performed while you use Doxycycline. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
• Doxycycline should not be used in children younger than 8 years old; permanent tooth discoloration (yellow-gray-brown) may occur.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Doxycycline has been shown to cause harm to the fetus. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Doxycycline while you are pregnant. Doxycycline is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Doxycycline.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• loss of appetite; nausea; sensitivity to sunlight; vomiting.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; unusual hoarseness); bloody stools; dark urine; decreased urination; fever, chills, or sore throat; severe diarrhea; severe or persistent headache; stomach pain or cramps; throat irritation; trouble swallowing; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual tiredness; vaginal irritation or discharge; vision changes; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

More Information

Doxycycline is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.