Doxycycline is a broad spectrum antibiotic in the tetracycline group and is a prescription drug.

It was patented in 1957 and was commercially available from 1967. It is on the National List of Essential Medicines.

ACTION:

It acts by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial proteins by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, which is only found in bacteria. This prevents bacterial growth giving the immune system time to kill and remove the bacteria. It has bacteriostatic action.

USES:

It is counted as most effective, cheap and safe medicine useful for treating many bacterial infections affecting:

• the urinary tract, intestine, lung, eye, skin, (gonorrhea & syphilis), gum etc.
• It can be used to treat acne pimples, blemishes, bumps also.
• Doxy is useful in treating malaria (in combination with quinine), Anthrax, and for infections caused by mites, ticks, or lice.

CAUTION:

• This is not indicated for patients having liver diseases, kidney diseases, allergic asthma, increased pressure inside the skull;
• or for those using isotretinoin, seizure medicine, or a blood thinner like warfarin (Coumadin).
• This is not recommended during pregnancy since it affects tooth and bone development in the unborn baby.
• Doxy can reduce the effect of oral contraceptives and can pass into breast milk and may affect bone and tooth development in a nursing infant.
• Children should not use this medicine since it causes permanent yellowing or greying of the teeth in children below 8 years old.

OTHER PRECAUTIONS:

• Do not take supplements containing multivitamins, calcium & iron, antacids, or laxatives within 2 hours before or after taking the drug.
• Antibiotics can cause diarrhoea, which may be a sign of a new infection. Do not use anti-diarrheal without prescription, in such cases.
• If there is signs of an allergic reaction (hives, breathing difficulty, swelling in the face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning in the eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling) consult the doctor immediately.

ADMINISTRATION:

• Consume the drug with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of liquids while taking this medicine.
• It may be taken with food or milk if the medicine upsets the stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.
• Do not crush, break, or open a delayed-release capsule or tablet. Swallow the pill whole.
• Doxy can be given by injection only if unable to take by mouth.
• Use this Medicine for the full prescribed length of time. Skipping doses may also increase the risk of super infection, resistant to antibiotics.
• It is not meant for viral infections like flu or common cold.

STORAGE: The drug should be Stored at room temperature away from moisture, heat and light.

GENERAL DOSAGE:

Initial: 200 mg/day divided twice daily orally/ intravenously, on first day (IV may be given once daily), Maintenance: 100-200 mg/day once/day or divided once in every 12 hours orally/as IV.