Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This medication serves to address a broad spectrum of bacterial infections, encompassing those responsible for causing acne. It is also employed in the prevention of malaria. Classified as a tetracycline antibiotic, it functions by impeding the proliferation of bacteria.
Uses and Dosage
Doxycycline is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, delayed-release tablets, and suspension (liquid), designed for oral consumption. Typically, doxycycline is taken once or twice daily, and it should be accompanied by a full glass of water. If it causes stomach discomfort, you can take it with food or milk. Always adhere to your doctor’s prescribed dosage and do not alter it without their guidance.
For delayed-release tablets, swallow them whole, refraining from splitting, chewing, or crushing them. If you encounter difficulty swallowing specific delayed-release tablets, you can cautiously break the tablet and sprinkle its contents onto a spoonful of cold or room temperature (not hot) applesauce. Ensure you avoid crushing or damaging the pellets during this process. Consume the mixture promptly and swallow it without chewing. If you cannot ingest it immediately, discard the mixture.
Before each use, remember to shake the suspension well to achieve an even distribution of the medication.
If you are taking doxycycline as a malaria preventive measure, initiate the medication 1 or 2 days before embarking on your journey to a malaria-prone region. Continue taking doxycycline daily while in the area and for an additional 4 weeks after departing. It is not recommended to use doxycycline for malaria prevention for more than 4 months.
Even if you start to feel better, continue taking doxycycline until you have completed the prescribed course unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
It’s essential to use the specific type of doxycycline prescribed by your doctor, as not all doxycycline products are interchangeable. If you have any doubts about the type of doxycycline provided to you, consult your pharmacist for clarification.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- itching of the rectum
- swelling, redness, burning, itching, or irritation of the vagina
- vaginal discharge
- painful or difficult urination
- sore throat or nose
- swollen tongue
- dry mouth
- anxiety
- back pain
- changes in color of skin, scars, nails, eyes, or mouth
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- severe headache
- blurred vision, seeing double, or loss of vision
- rash that may occur with fever or swollen glands
- hives
- skin redness, peeling or blistering
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- swelling of the eyes, face, throat, tongue, or lips
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- watery or bloody stools, stomach cramps, or fever during treatment or for up to two or more months after stopping treatment
- a return of fever, sore throat, chills, or other signs of infection
- joint pain
Caution
Prior to taking doxycycline, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any known allergies, whether to doxycycline itself, other tetracycline antibiotics like minocycline, or any other substances. Some formulations of this product may contain inactive ingredients, such as sulfites or soy, which have the potential to trigger allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
Before commencing treatment with this medication, share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have experienced difficulties with swallowing or have a history of esophagus issues, such as hiatal hernia or reflux/heartburn.
Doxycycline can interfere with the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines, like the typhoid vaccine. Therefore, be sure to inform your healthcare professional that you are using doxycycline before receiving any immunizations or vaccinations.
Doxycycline may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. To minimize risk, limit your sun exposure, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Promptly notify your doctor if you experience sunburn or notice skin blisters or redness.
Children under 8 years old may be more vulnerable to the side effects of doxycycline, especially tooth discoloration. Tooth discoloration has been observed in older children and young adults as well.
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor. The use of doxycycline during pregnancy is discouraged, as it may pose risks to the developing fetus. Should you become pregnant while on doxycycline, consult your doctor to assess the potential benefits and risks of the medication.
Doxycycline is known to pass into breast milk, so consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Form and Strength
Vibra-Tab is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
doxycycline film-coated tablet:
- 100mg
FAQ
When will I feel better while taking Vibra-Tab?
With most infections, you’ll usually feel better within a few days. When you do, it’s important to keep taking
Vibra-Tab until you finish your medicine. Taking all your medicine will help stop the infection from coming back.
Can I drink coffee after taking Vibra-Tab?
It is best to avoid coffee, spicy food or alcohol while taking this medication.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/doxycycline/common-questions-about-doxycycline/
- https://www.familiprix.com/en/medications/doxycycline-100mg-capsule-02351234
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/vibra-tabs
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5950/vibra-tabs-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682063.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cons/vibra-tabs.html
