Description
What Are Doxycycline Capsules?
Doxycycline Capsules are an antibiotic from the tetracycline group, used to treat bacterial infections and prevent certain illnesses. Doctors prescribe them for conditions like chest infections, urinary tract infections, and acne. They also help prevent infections such as malaria and traveller’s diarrhoea.
What Are Doxycycline Capsules Used For?
Doctors prescribe Doxycycline to treat a wide range of bacterial infections and to prevent certain illnesses.
It is commonly used for:
— Chest, lung, or nasal infections – Helps treat pneumonia, sinusitis, and bronchitis.
— Urinary tract infections – Used for cystitis, urethritis, and other urinary infections.
— Acne – Helps reduce inflammation and bacterial growth in the skin.
— Eye infections – Treats bacterial infections affecting the eyes.
— Sexually transmitted infections – Used for gonorrhoea, syphilis, and chlamydia.
— Fevers from louse or tick bites – Treats infections caused by insect bites.
— Malaria – An option when chloroquine is not effective.
— Infection prevention – Helps prevent illnesses such as scrub typhus, leptospirosis, traveller’s diarrhoea, and malaria.
How Do Doxycycline Capsules Work?
Doxycycline Capsules work by stopping bacteria from growing and spreading, helping to clear infections. They also prevent certain illnesses by stopping bacteria from multiplying in the body before they cause symptoms.
How Should Doxycycline Be Taken?
The dosage depends on the condition being treated, so always follow your doctor’s instructions.
General guidelines include:
— Take at the same time each day – This helps maintain steady levels in your body.
— Swallow with plenty of water – Drink a full glass to prevent irritation.
— Stay upright for at least 30 minutes – Take it while sitting or standing to avoid throat irritation.
— With or without food – If it upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk.
— Missed a dose? – Take it as soon as you remember, but if it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses at once.
Are There Any Side Effects of Doxycycline?
Like all medicines, Doxycycline may cause side effects, but not everyone will experience them. Common and serious side effects include:
Common side effects:
— Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite.
— Headache, dizziness, or increased skin sensitivity to sunlight.
— Vaginal infections.
Less common but serious side effects:
— Severe allergic reactions, including rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
— Severe headaches with vision changes, which may indicate pressure in the skull.
— Bloody diarrhoea, which could be a sign of bowel inflammation.
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any serious side effects.
Who Should Avoid Doxycycline Capsules?
Doxycycline is not suitable for everyone. Speak to a doctor before taking it if any of the following apply:
— Allergies – Do not take if you are allergic to doxycycline or other tetracycline antibiotics.
— Pregnancy and breastfeeding – Not recommended during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or for children under 8 unless advised by a doctor.
— Kidney or liver problems – May not be suitable for those with existing conditions affecting these organs.
— Certain medical conditions – People with myasthenia gravis, lupus, or porphyria should consult a doctor before use.
— Medication interactions – Some medicines, such as antacids, blood thinners, and oral contraceptives, may interfere with Doxycycline.
How Should Doxycycline Capsules Be Stored?
— Keep below 25°C in a dry place.
— Store in the original packaging.
— Keep out of reach of children.
