Introduction
Doxycycline is a broad-spectrum tetracycline-class antibiotic used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections. Being broad spectrum in nature, it works against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and is especially useful in conditions when infection with multiple groups of bacteria is suspected. In addition to its antibacterial properties, the medication is also popular as an antimalarial and anthelmintic medication. It is FDA approved and under the WHOs list of essential medications for its wide range of uses.
Working
Tetracyclines, the class to which Doxycycline belongs, work by inhibiting the 30S ribosomal subunit and hindering the binding of the aminoacyl-tRNA to the acceptor site on the mRNA-ribosome complex of the bacterial cell. When this process halts, a cell can no longer maintain proper functioning and will be unable to grow or further replicate.
What makes Doxycycline unique from other tetracyclines is in addition to affecting the ribosomal complex, its mechanism of action involves Zn2+ chelation that prevents it from crossing the blood-brain barrier and makes it a safer treatment option.
Onset
Doxycycline starts working 2 hours after taking it. But depending on the infection you have, it may take up to 24 to 48 hours to start seeing its effects. It takes 1 to 2 weeks for Doxycycline to clear an infection fully, but some infections can take as long as two months. It has an average half-life of 16-18 hours and stays in the system for 2-5 days, after which it is eliminated in the form of metabolic wastes.
Precautions
Important precautions while using Doxycycline
- Avoid the medication in pregnancy conditions.
- Stay out of the sun while using it, as it may lead to sun sensitivity reactions.
- Avoid using antacids while using the medication.
FAQ
What is Doxycycline used for?
- For bacterial infections like Chlamydia, Rocky Mountain Fever,
- In conditions of trachoma, inclusion conjunctivitis, and uncomplicated urethral, endocervical and rectal infections caused by Chlamydia Trachomatis
- Respiratory tract and urinary tract infection conditions
- As an antimalarial and anthelmintic drug
- In skin and soft tissue infections caused by Staphylococcus Aureus
What are the common side effects of doxycycline?
Some common doxycycline 100mg side effects are as follows -:
- Mild side effects -: stomach upset, mild diarrhea, vaginal itching or discharge, loss of appetite.
- Moderate side effects -: fever, flu-like symptoms, throat irritation, trouble swallowing.
- Severe side effects -: jaundice, fast heart rate, watery or bloody diarrhea, skin rashes with blistering and peeling.
Discontinue the medication on observing recurrent or intensified Doxycycline 100mg side effects and get urgent medical attention.
Can you drink on Doxycycline?
Combining Doxycycline and alcohol may not cause a very severe reaction. But it will significantly impact the effectiveness of Doxycycline and prevent it from exerting its antibacterial actions. If the user has a chronic liver issue or is on other medications, the use of alcohol along with the drugs can lead to drug interactions. Alcohol usage can further impact the motor function of the user and lead to falls and collisions.
How to take Doxycycline 100mg?
Doxycycline should be taken once or twice a day, an hour before or two hours after meals. The best time to use the medication is to use it first thing in the morning or before bedtime to allow absorption of the drug successfully and counter the common side effects like nausea, headaches, and dizziness.
What is the oral dosage of Doxycycline for chest infection?
For chest infections in the form of pneumonia or upper respiratory tract infection, an Initial dose of 200 mg orally is advised on the first day, given in 2 divided doses of 100 mg every 12 hours. After the completion of initial doses, a Doxycycline 100 mg maintenance dosage once a day or 50 mg every 12 hours is advised to the patient. In severe chest infections with additional chronic urinary tract involvement, 100 mg of the drug is advised every 12 hours.
How quickly does Doxycycline work for acne?
Doxycycline for acne dose is 50mg or 100mg twice daily or 100mg once daily depending on the acne intensity and tolerance of the patient. It takes a time of 2-12 weeks to observe visible results of bacterial clearance. Unlike other medications, Doxycycline 100mg for acne does not result in a purging period or worsening of acne before observing improvements. But care must be taken to avoid cosmetics and make-up products during this time.
Can I take Doxycycline 100 mg twice a day?
You can take Doxycycline 100mg twice a day as per the surgeon’s treatment plan. The doses should be taken 12 hours apart each day for as long as directed. In adults with infection,100 mg every 12 hours on the first day, followed by 100 mg once a day, is the safety dose. In children eight years or older weighing 45 (kg) or more, 100 mg of the drug is advised every 12 hours on the first day, followed by 100 mg once daily.
Does Doxycycline help with Covid-19?
Clinical studies In hospitalized COVID-19 patients have shown Doxycycline to be a safe, inexpensive, and widely available antibiotic with anti-inflammatory properties that reduces the need for ICU admission when added to the Standard of Care. Taking Doxycycline 100mg dosage twice a day for Covid has been shown to treat respiratory symptoms satisfactorily. But data regarding the safety and efficacy of the drug in covid conditions are still scarce, because of which Doxycycline can only be used in clinical trials for covid conditions.
What are the side effects of Doxycycline in dogs?
Dogs generally tolerate Doxycycline well and are advised to be administered the medications for respiratory infections, Urinary tract infections, Infected wounds, Blood-borne infections, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Lyme Disease. The most common side effects are symptoms of GI upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Severe GI symptoms can signify Doxycycline overdosing and should be followed by prompt vet intervention. Doxycycline can even cause skeletal limb abnormalities in developing in-utero puppies in pregnant mothers. To avoid such complications, avoid administering the drug to pregnant dogs.
Is Doxycycline the best option for the treatment of rectal Chlamydia trachomatis infection
In a study conducted to compare the effectiveness of Doxycycline 100 mg twice a day for 7 days and azithromycin 1 g single dose for rectal Chlamydia trachomatis infection among MSM in a clinical setting, Doxycycline proved superior to Azithromycin in Rectal C. Trachomatous conditions. This is significant as Rectal Chlamydia Trachomatis infection increases the risk of HIV acquisition and transmission, especially among MSM, and the use of Doxycycline can address the issue with positive results.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.