Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Doxycycline hyclate finds application among patients diagnosed with periodontitis, a form of gum disease, subsequent to undergoing a specific dental intervention known as scaling and root planing. Its utility lies in enhancing dental adherence and diminishing periodontal pockets. Classified within the category of tetracycline antibiotics, doxycycline operates at a minimal dosage that precludes its application for the treatment of bacterial infections. This medication helps in the preservation of gum tissue integrity by impeding potential breakdown.
Uses and Dosage
Doxycycline is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, delayed-release tablets, and liquid suspension, designed for oral consumption. Typically, doxycycline is taken once or twice a day. Accompany each dose with a full glass of water. If the medication causes stomach discomfort, it can be ingested with food or milk.
Adhere precisely to the prescribed guidelines for doxycycline consumption. Do not exceed or decrease the prescribed dosage or frequency without medical guidance.
For delayed-release tablets, they should be swallowed whole without splitting, chewing, or crushing.
In situations where you have difficulty swallowing certain delayed-release tablets (such as Doryx and generics), cautiously break the tablet and sprinkle its contents onto a spoonful of cold or room temperature (not hot) applesauce. Ensure that the pellets remain undamaged during this process. Consume the mixture immediately, swallowing without chewing. If immediate consumption is not feasible, discard the mixture.
Before each use, thoroughly shake the suspension to ensure uniform medication distribution.
If you are taking doxycycline for malaria prevention, initiate the regimen 1 or 2 days prior to traveling to a malaria-prone area. Continue taking doxycycline daily throughout your stay and for 4 weeks following departure from the area. The preventive use of doxycycline against malaria should not extend beyond 4 months.
Even if you begin to feel well, adhere to the doxycycline regimen. Consume the entire prescribed medication course unless directed otherwise by your physician.
Different doxycycline products are not interchangeable. Confirm that you are receiving the specific type of doxycycline prescribed by your doctor. Should you have any inquiries about the variant of doxycycline provided, consult your pharmacist.
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:
- 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
- discoloration of permanent (adult) teeth
Caution
Prior to initiating doxycycline treatment, inform your medical practitioner or pharmacist of any known allergy to doxycycline, other tetracyclines (such as minocycline), or any other allergens. This product might contain inert components capable of eliciting allergic reactions or similar complications.
Before commencing the use of this medication, apprise your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, particularly if you have experienced difficulties in swallowing or have encountered esophageal issues (such as hiatal hernia or reflux/heartburn).
Doxycycline can potentially compromise the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines (such as the typhoid vaccine). Notify your healthcare professional about your doxycycline usage before undergoing any immunizations or vaccinations.
This medication can heighten your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, necessitating caution during sun exposure. Refrain from utilizing tanning booths and sunlamps, while also employing sunscreen and protective attire while outdoors. Inform your doctor in the event of sunburn or the emergence of skin blisters/redness.
Children under the age of 8 are more susceptible to the adverse effects of doxycycline, notably the possibility of tooth discoloration. While tooth discoloration has also been observed in older children and young adults, discuss the potential risks and advantages of this medication with your physician.
For individuals who are pregnant or planning pregnancy, inform your doctor of your condition. The use of doxycycline during pregnancy is discouraged, as it carries the potential to harm the developing fetus. In case of pregnancy, promptly consult your doctor to deliberate on the risks and benefits associated with this medication.
This medication can be transmitted through breast milk. Prior to breastfeeding, seek counsel from your doctor to ensure informed decision-making.
Form and Strength
Periostat is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Periostat capsule:
- 20mg
FAQ
How long does Periostat take to work?
Even though Periostat is absorbed into your body as quickly as 15 minutes after you take your dose, you might not notice improvement in your symptoms for a few days. For many types of infection, it can take 1 to 2 weeks, and sometimes longer, to fight off the infection.
Is Periostat used for sinus infections?
Many sinus infections are due to viruses, so antibiotics won’t work against them.
