Doxycycline
Doxycycline is a prescription tetracycline antibiotic intended for the treatment of bacterial infections

Doxycycline

Doxycycline is a prescription tetracycline antibiotic intended for the treatment of bacterial infections, including acne, infections of the skin, urinary and genital systems, respiratory tract infections (pneumonia), Lyme disease and a number of other conditions as prescribed by your health care provider. The effects of this medicine are based on preventing the growth of bacteria. There are different forms of doxycycline that you may be prescribed - a tablet, a suspension, a liquid and a coated capsule. You should take this medicine with a glass of water, although in some cases may also use it with some milk of food (in case your stomach gets easily upset). However, you need to remember than taking this medicine with food or milk can affect the speed of its absorption and make your treatment less effective. Talking to your doctor is required if you are going to use doxycycline to prevent any health conditions you have or any drugs you are taking from interfering with the treatment. Inform your health care provider of the fact of taking penicillin, anticoagulants, carbamazepine, vitamins, phenobarbital, antacids or phenytoin as these medicines have been reported to cause interactions. If you have to take antacids make sure you take doxycycline an hour before or two hours after you have taken an antacid. Doxycycline is not supposed to be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women as it can cause permanent teeth discoloration and other problems in babies. Do not give this medicine to children younger than 8, as in that case their teeth can become permanently stained.

There are some mild side effects you may experience, including diarrhea, itching of the rectum or vagina, or sore mouth. While side effects mentioned above are most likely to go away on their own without the need to notify your doctor, tell your health care provider if you notice any of the following serious side effects: confusion, dark-colored urine, skin rash, blurred vision, yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe headache, vomiting, loss of appetite, extreme tiredness or weakness, stomach pain and decreased urination. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and other people to whom it was not prescribed. Throw away any medicine past expiration period as taking it can be dangerous for your health.

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