Everything about Doxycycline (Doxycycline) in simple terms: Let's learn about this medicine that the doctor prescribed.

Did your doctor prescribe you a medicine called Doxycycline ? So today we will talk briefly about this medicine, how to use it, and what to be careful about. This will be very important for you. Because it is very important to know about a medicine when using it.

What kind of medicine is this Doxycycline ?

Simply put, doxycycline is an antibiotic . To be precise, it belongs to the tetracycline group of antibiotics . Its main function is to cure bacterial infections in our body.

But this does not cure diseases caused by viruses, such as the common cold and flu. Because bacteria and viruses are two types of living organisms, this medicine only works on bacteria. Sometimes, doctors may also prescribe this medicine for other reasons, such as preventing malaria .

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

It is very important for your doctor to know your complete medical history before prescribing this medication. Therefore, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Kidney disease : If you have any kidney problems.
• Liver diseases: If you have liver-related diseases.
• Frequent exposure to sunlight: If you are constantly exposed to the sun, such as someone who works outdoors.
• Recent stomach surgery: If you have recently undergone surgery on your stomach or intestines.
• Stomach or intestinal problems: If you have inflammatory bowel conditions such as colitis.
• Vision problems: If you have any problems with your eyesight .
• Yeast or fungal infections: If you have fungal infections in the mouth or vagina.
• Allergies:You should tell your doctor if you have any allergies to doxycycline, other tetracycline antibiotics, other medications, foods, preservatives, or dyes.
• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or are hoping to become pregnant.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother.

It is very important for your safety to tell the doctor these things without hiding them.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

Using a medicine correctly is the best way to get the most out of it.

• Take this pill with a full glass of water . Do not drink it with a little water.
• Try to take your medicine at the same time every day , as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not break, crush, or chew these tablets. Swallow the tablet whole. Since these come with a special coating (delayed-release), doing so may affect the way the medicine works.
• It is best to take this medicine without food. However, if you experience stomach upset or nausea, take the medicine with some food.
• Most importantly: Even if you feel better, finish the entire course of medication prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking it without your doctor's advice. Doing so may cause the infection to come back.
• If you are taking antacids, vitamins, or other products containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, iron, or zinc, do not take them at the same time as this medication. Take them at a different time. If you are unsure, talk to your doctor.

Should this medicine be given to small children?

This medicine is also prescribed for children in some special cases. However, there are special precautions involved, so if you are giving this to a child, talk to your doctor carefully and get advice.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .

What do you do if you miss a dose of medicine?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

Other things that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)

Some medications, vitamins, and foods can interact with doxycycline. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, supplements). Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.

Some things that can interact with doxycycline:

• Antacids, products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, or zinc
• Birth control pills
• Warfarin (a blood thinner)
• Antiepileptic drugs such as Carbamazepine and Phenytoin
• Barbiturates
• Bismuth subsalicylate
• Oral retinoids such as Acitretin and Isotretinoin
• Other antibiotics

This list is not complete, so it's best to tell your doctor about everything you're taking.

Special points to be aware of when taking the medicine

• If symptoms do not improve: If your symptoms do not improve despite taking the medicine, tell your doctor.
• Diarrhea: If you have diarrhea, do not take over-the-counter medications. If you have diarrhea for more than two days, or if the diarrhea is severe and watery, call your doctor immediately.
• Do not take this pill before going to bed: Do not lie down before going to bed at night. If you do, the pill may not dissolve properly and may get stuck in your throat and cause pain. Therefore, drink it with plenty of water and lie down for a while before going to bed.
• Be careful of the sun: The sun is strong in our country. While taking this medicine, your skin may become very sensitive to the sun. This means that even a little exposure to the sun may cause your skin to turn red and feel like it is burning. Therefore, avoid the sun as much as possible. If you go out, wear clothes that cover your body and use sunscreen.
• Birth control pills: If you are taking birth control pills, their effectiveness may be reduced while taking this medication. Therefore, talk to your doctor about using an additional form of birth control.
• Sexually transmitted infections: If you are being treated for a sexually transmitted infection, avoid having sex until you have completed treatment. Your partner may also need treatment.

Side effects that may occur due to medication

Like any medicine, doxycycline can cause some side effects. Some are serious, while others are common.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms, please seek medical advice.

How to keep medicine safe?

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Store the bottle tightly closed in an airtight container, away from light, at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius).
• Throw away any medicine left after the expiration date.