Doxycycline

Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic that fights bacterial and parasitic infections in our bodies. The infections include acne, intestinal infections, urinary tract infections, eye infections, respiratory infections, etc. When it comes to skin infections, doxycycline effectively helps patients with rashes, acne, bumps, blemishes, etc. It is a great supplement to quinine when it comes to treating malaria.

Doxycycline falls within the category of tetracycline antibiotics and functions by inhibiting the growth and dissemination of bacteria to address infections. In the case of acne, it eliminates bacteria-causing pore infections and reduces the production of a specific natural oily substance associated with acne. For rosacea, doxycycline diminishes the inflammation responsible for this skin condition.

It's crucial to understand that antibiotics like doxycycline are ineffective against viral infections such as colds and the flu. The misuse of antibiotics, especially when not necessary, heightens the likelihood of developing infections later that may resist antibiotic treatment.

Let us understand all the aspects of Doxycycline.

What are the uses of Doxycycline?

Doxycycline treats many conditions ranging from treating acne to other bacterial infections. Doxycycline tablet uses are:

• Malaria: Doxycycline is used as a prophylactic medication to prevent malaria in individuals traveling to malaria-endemic regions. It is part of a combination therapy for this purpose.
• Lyme Disease: Doxycycline is commonly prescribed for the treatment of Lyme disease, which is a bacterial infection transmitted through tick bites.
• Pimples and Abscesses (Acne): Doxycycline is effective in treating acne by targeting the bacteria associated with the development of pimples and abscesses. It also helps reduce inflammation and control the production of oily substances on the skin.
• Eye Infections: In some cases, doxycycline may be prescribed to treat certain eye infections caused by bacteria.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Doxycycline can be used to treat urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Respiratory Infections: Respiratory infections, including pneumonia and bronchitis caused by certain bacteria, may be treated with doxycycline.
• Syphilis: Doxycycline is one of the antibiotics used to treat syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.
• Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Doxycycline is sometimes used as an adjunctive treatment for periodontitis (gum disease) to reduce inflammation and control bacterial growth.
• Intestinal Infections: Doxycycline may be prescribed for certain intestinal infections caused by susceptible bacteria.

Doxycycline is primarily used to treat skin infections caused by bacteria. Interestingly, the bacteria in the skin infect the pores and decrease natural oil in the skin, thereby causing infection. It is best to use this medicine in such cases. Let us now discuss how we should take the medicine.

How & when to take Doxycycline?

The dose of doxycycline depends upon the age, body weight, and patient’s condition. The usual dose ranges from 100mg to 200mg, and it may be taken twice a day. Low doses are also prescribed by doctors for some infections. For instance, one can take 40 mg once a day or 20 mg twice a day for gum infections.

Children, who are younger than 12 years, must take lower doses as compared to adults. The dose depends upon the age of the child and weight.

If you are taking the medicine once or twice a day, then you must try to space out the doses evenly throughout the day.

When it comes to how to take the dose, some key points must be kept in mind.

• If you are taking a 40 mg dose, then take it at least one hour before having food.

• Similarly, if you are taking a higher dose of 100 mg for different kinds of infections, then you can take it with or without food. However, it is usually advised to take it with food. 

• It is not advised to have medicines along with dairy products. It can prevent the medicine from being absorbed into the body. However, you can have dairy products a few hours before you have the medicine.

• Avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medicine.

• Take the medicine in an upright position so that the food pipe is not irritated.

What are the side effects of Doxycycline?

Some common Doxycycline side effects include:

• Nausea

• Puking

• Diarrhoea

• Sore throat

• Itching

• Dry mouth

• Anxiety

• Back pain

• Pale skin

• Loss of appetite

Some severe side effects include:

• Blurred vision

• Headache

• Joint pain

• Chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Redness in the skin

• Hives

• Discolouration of teeth

• Unusual bleeding

• Face, Throat, and Eye Swelling

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, then it is best to consult a doctor.  

What are the precautions to be taken while taking Dopamine?

Before taking the medicine, it is best to tell your doctor about the nutritional supplements, medications, vitamins, etc., you are currently taking or planning to take. Avoid antacids that contain magnesium, aluminium, calcium, iron products, laxatives, etc., as they lower the effect of the medicine in the body.

Do not take Doxycycline if you have:

• Lupus

• High blood pressure

• High pressure in the skull

• Hypertension

• Underwent stomach surgery

• Yeast infection

• Asthma

• Kidney or liver disease

• Double vision

There are rare cases where doxycycline can cause skin sensitivity because of regular exposure to the sun. Thus, precautions must be taken in all cases.

What If I miss the dose of Doxycycline?

If you have missed the dose, then take it as soon as you remember it. If the time for the next dose has arrived, then skip the previous dose. Do not take it.

Don’t take two doses at the same time. It can lead to an imbalance in the body. If you keep on forgetting doses, then it's best to set a reminder or an alarm so that the notification pings when it’s time for you to take the medicine. Carry the medicine wherever you go so that you don’t miss it.

What if I overdose on Doxycycline?

If you have taken an extra dose of the medicine, then there’s nothing to worry about. Doxycycline won’t affect much. But it is important to inform your doctor or pharmacist about it. Talk to your doctor if you have taken an extra dose. 

What are the storage conditions for Doxycycline?

Here are some key points that one must keep in mind regarding medicine.

• Prevent the direct contact of medicine with heat, light, or air.

• Keep it out of the reach of children.

• The temperature at which you keep the medicine should be 20 degrees to 25 degrees.

It is advised to consult your doctor before taking the medicine. If you have severe bacterial infections, then you must go for a checkup immediately. 

Can I take Doxycycline with other medications?

There are some medicines that you must not take with Doxycycline:

• Iron Supplements

• Laxatives

• Antacids

• Calcium Supplements

• Multivitamins

• Antibiotics

• Ingestion medicines

• Stomach Ulcer Medicine

• Acne medicines

• Warfarin

If it is necessary to take the above medicines or any other medications with Doxycycline, then consult your doctor to change doses or get safer alternatives. 

How quickly will Doxycycline show results?

Depending upon the reason you are taking it, Doxycycline can start to show results within two days. For instance, if you are taking doxycycline for acne, then it may take two weeks or longer to see the changes. 

Doxycycline Vs Tetracycline

Tetracycline is another medicine that can be taken in place of doxycycline. But there are certain differences between the two. Here are they:

Conclusion

People who are experiencing the side effects must seek medical help as soon as possible. It is best to take precautions while you are taking Doxycycline or any other medicine, as a matter of fact. It is best to consult your medical doctor and take the medications as per their prescription.

Faqs

1. What type of bacteria does doxycycline kill?

Doxycycline is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. It is commonly used to treat infections caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Haemophilus influenzae, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, and others.

2. Is doxycycline good for a sinus infection?

Doxycycline can be prescribed for certain bacterial sinus infections. However, sinus infections can be caused by various factors, including viruses and bacteria. The decision to use doxycycline or another antibiotic depends on the specific type of bacteria causing the infection and should be determined by a healthcare professional.

3. Can Doxycycline cause allergic reactions?

Yes, like any medication, doxycycline can potentially cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you experience symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Allergic reactions to medications should be reported to your healthcare provider.

4. Is it safe to take Doxycycline while breastfeeding?

The safety of taking doxycycline while breastfeeding depends on various factors, including the age and health of the infant, the dose of the medication, and the duration of treatment. In general, small amounts of doxycycline may pass into breast milk, and its use during breastfeeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider. They can assess the potential risks and benefits and provide guidance on whether doxycycline is suitable during breastfeeding or if an alternative should be considered.

Reference: 

https://www.drugs.com/doxycycline.html https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/doxycycline-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20068229 https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682063.html https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-14449/doxycycline-oral/details

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.