Introduction
Doxycycline is an antibiotic that fights bacteria in the body. It is used to treat infections such as acne, intestinal infections, gonorrhea, chlamydia, urinary tract infections and others. Other forms OF Doxycycline are used to treat, malaria, anthrax and infections caused by mites, ticks or lice.
However, while using the drug, you may experience certain side effects. These include;
– Difficulty in breathing
– Itching in genital and rectal areas.
– Experiencing pain when swallowing food.
– Skin redness, blistering, and peeling – here you can experience this inside the mouth.
– Severe Stomach aches
– body fatigue and weakness
– Fever
– confusion
In case you experience these side effects, consult your healthcare professional for help and advice.
When taking the medicine, ensure you are not allergic to it or any other tetracycline antibiotic for instance tigecycline. Don’t forget to notify the doctor if you suffer from: Kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, or if you take seizure medicine.
It is also worth noting that; doxycycline is not to be taken by pregnant women since it can harm the unborn causing permanent teeth discoloration in later stages of life.
It also affects breast milk and may affect bone and tooth development in your baby. This medicine must not be used by children.
Directions for use
Doxycycline should be taken as prescribed by the doctor. Avoid taking an overdose or an under dose.
While taking the medicine, it is recommended that you take it with a full glass of water or more. Depending on the brand, doxycycline can be taken with or without food. Your doctor should clarify that to you.
You may break the capsule or open it up for easier swallowing. Drink 8 ounces of water right away.
In the case of a missed dose, take the dose as soon as you remember but if it’s almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed dose. Do not take an extra tablet to cover the missed dose.
In the case where you overdose, you should seek medical attention.
Things you should avoid while taking doxycycline:
Avoid taking any other antibiotic with doxycycline unless the doctor prescribes it to you.
Do not take iron supplements, calcium supplements or laxatives with 2 hours before or after taking the medicine.
Avoid exposing the medicine to sunlight as it can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing whenever you are outdoors.
In case, you experience diarrhea that is bloody stop taking the medicine immediately and consult your doctor.
Drugs that interact with doxycycline
– Penicillin
– Blood thinners
– Oral birth control pills
– Iron supplements
– Antacids
Conclusion
To avoid unnecessary side effects, you should tell your doctor about all other medicines that you use.
Keep doxycycline out of reach of children. Store at a room temperature that is 30 degrees and below. Avoid using the medicine after the expiration date.
