Doxcycline belongs to the class of tetracycline antibiotic medications and is indicated for the managing of bacterial infections in the body. Tetracycline antibiotic medications is a group of medications produced by certain species of bacteria known as fungus Streptomyces and are effective against various types of bacteria. This medication works by inhibiting the multiplication of certain bacteria that cause infections in your body.

Such conditions as skin, bone, stomach, sinus, ear, respiratory tract, and urinary tract infections are effectively treated with the help of this medication. Besides, this drug can be used to treat Lyme disease, as well as gonorrhea and chlamydia. Such condition as Anthrax can be managed with Doxcycline antibiotic.

Among other uses of this medication is the treatment of malaria. Ask your doctor for the full list of the conditions that can be treated with this medication.

Before the treatment it is important to consult with the health provider and learn about the possible risks of using this medication taking into the consideration your particular health condition.

The dosages and the use of Doxycycline

For the best effect, the medication should be used exactly as it is prescribed by the health provider. If the instructions given on the prescription label are not clear for you, ask your doctor to explain.

Doxycycline in the forms of tablets and capsules are taken by mouth with a full glass of water. It is advisable to take Doxycycline on an empty stomach, but if you suffer from upset stomach, use it with food or milk. Doxycycline medication should not be taken just before going to sleep as when you are lying down it can prevent the medication from dissolving properly causing food pipe ulcer.

Medication doses should be taken according to the regular schedule.

Doxycycline should be taken the entire period that is indicated by the health provider even if you feel much better as the symptoms may tend to improve before the infection is completely managed.

Precautions to follow

It’s important to tell your medical provider if you have an allergy to such medicines as doxycycline, as well other tetracyclines, or any other medications. Your medical provider should also know about prescription and nonprescription medicines that you are taking, particularly antacids, anticoagulants, and any dietary supplements. Note that Doxycycline decreases the effectiveness of certain oral birth-control pills, so another form of birth control should be taken when treating with this medication. Also remember that antacids, calcium supplements, and products containing iron, and magnesium interfere with the action of doxycycline decreasing its effectiveness. That’s why it’s recommended to take Doxycycline 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking such products.

Before using Doxycycline medication, tell your medical provider about the existing conditions, particularly, diabetes, kidney or liver disease.

The medical provider should know if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing to evaluate all the benefits and the possible risks from this drug. Also if you become pregnant while using Doxycycline, your medical provider should be informed immediately as Doxycycline might cause damage to the fetus.

Doxycycline if used during pregnancy or in babies or small children can cause the teeth to get permanently stained, so this medication should not be used in children below 8 years old.

Before undergoing any surgical procedures, tell your doctor that you are using Doxycycline.

During the treatment with this medication avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and wear protective clothing and use sunscreen as this medication might provoke skin sensitivity to sunlight.

Certain precautions should be taken during the use of doxycycline for preventing malaria such as using protective measures (effective insect repellent, mosquito nets, clothing). Remember that using Doxycycline does not provide full protection against malaria.

Adverse effects

This medication can cause sore mouth, diarrhea, itching of the rectum or vagina.  If these symptoms persist, consult with the health provider.

If the following symptoms are observed, contact your health provider without a delay: severe headache, hazy vision, skin rash, itching, difficulty swallowing, breathing problems, sunburn, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark-colored urine, decreased appetite, stomach disorders, stomach pain, vomiting, extreme weakness, fatigue, confusion, and some others.

Inform your medical provider if any unusual side reactions occur.