Doxycycline 100mg

Description

A tetracycline antibiotic, Doxycycline is used to treat bacterial infections by slowing the growth of certain bacteria and allowing the body’s own immune system to fight the infection.

Doxycycline can also be used to reduce or prevent the progression of anthrax following exposure and, in conjunction with other drugs, can be used to treat specific amoeba infections.

Storage

Doxycycline is to be stored at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20-25°C), in its original container and tightly closed, away from heat, light and moisture. It can be stored for a brief time between 59°F and 86°F (15-30°C), but must not be stored in the bathroom.

The product must be kept out of the reach of children and pets at all times. Any medication that is out of date should be disposed of safely (any pharmacist will be able to advise you on disposal instructions).

Method of Use

It is recommended that Doxycycline is administered by injection by your doctor at surgery, or at a hospital or clinic. If you are going to be self-administering Doxycycline at home, ensure that a health care worker has taught you how to use it and that you understand the medication. Ensure you always follow the directed procedure and for the maximum benefit, take Doxycycline at approximately the same time every day.

If Doxycycline contains particles, is cloudy or a different colour, or it the vial is cracked or damaged, do not use the medication and seek medical advice immediately.

Always complete a prescribed course to ensure the infection has completely cleared. If you miss a dose of Doxycycline, take a dose as soon as you remember, unless this is close to your next scheduled dose. If it is, miss that dose and then return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Advise Notes

If you are allergic to any ingredients contained in Doxycycline, or you have recently had, or will be receiving, a live oral typhoid vaccine, or if you are taking acitretin, oral contraceptives (birth control pills) or penicillin’s, such as Amoxicillin, do not take Doxycycline and seek immediate medical advice.

Prior to taking Doxycycline, advise your doctor or pharmacist of any historical or existing medical conditions, or if:

• you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant or are breast feeding;
• you are taking a prescription or non-prescription medications, herbal preparations or dietary supplements;
• you have any allergies to medications, foods or other substances;
• you have diarrhea, a stomach or intestinal infection, a history of lupus, or the blood disease known as porphyria;
• you are taking any form of barbiturates, such as Phenobarbital, carbamazepine, hydantoins or phenytoin (these may reduce the effect of Doxycycline);
• you are taking Acitretin or isotretinoin (these may increase the risk of side effects, such as more pressure inside the skull resulting in
• severe headaches and loss of vision);
• you are taking anticoagulants, such as Warfarin, digoxin methotrexate or methoxyflurane (these may increase the risk of side effects).

Potential Side Effects

If you experience any of the above or following side effects, stop taking Doxycycline, seek immediate emergency medical treatment and notify your doctor as soon as possible. Possible side effects include:

• loss of appetite;
• nausea, vomiting;
• sensitivity to sunlight;
• allergic reactions, such as hives, rash or itching;
• breathing difficulties, tightness in the chest;
• swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue;
• sore or irritable throat, hoarseness, swallowing difficulties;
• diarrhea, bloody stools, dark or reduced urine;
• fever, chills;
• headache;
• stomach pain/cramps;
• unusual bruising or bleeding;
• loss of or decreased vision;
• yellowing of the eyes or skin;
• excessive tiredness, insomnia;
• vaginal irritation or discharge.

Do not share Doxycycline with anyone else. It is recommended that you always complete a prescribed course. Do not use Doxycycline at a later date for a different medical reason, unless advised by your doctor.

Please note that the above list is not complete and other side effects may occur. Should any other side effects happen, consult your doctor as soon as possible.