Doxiciclina comprimidos y cápsulas

Acerca de la doxiciclina

¿Para qué se utiliza la doxiciclina?

Doxycycline is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat a number of different types of infection, including chest infections, some skin conditions, sexually transmitted infections, and infections in or around the mouth.

Doxycycline is also used to prevent people from getting malaria when they travel to countries where malaria occurs.

Although doxycycline can only be obtained on a prescription from a doctor, it is not prescribable on the NHS to prevent malaria. This means that you will be given a private (non-NHS) prescription and you will be asked to pay the full price for the tablets/capsules if you are taking it for this reason.

Efectos secundarios de la doxiciclina

Common side effects of doxycycline are:

• Malestar estomacal.

• Indigestión.

• Dolor de barriga (abdominal).

• Diarrea.

• Dolor de cabeza.

• Dolores y molestias.

• Yeast infection (thrush).

• Boca seca.

• Ansiedad.

• Aumento de la sudoración.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of these side effects continue or become troublesome.

Cómo tratar los efectos secundarios de la doxiciclina

Si experimenta cualquier otro síntoma que crea que puede deberse al medicamento, coméntelo con su médico o farmacéutico, que podrán aconsejarle mejor.

Who should not take doxycycline?

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions. Before starting doxycycline it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• Si está embarazada, esperando un bebé o en período de lactancia.

• Si tiene algún problema con el funcionamiento de su hígado, o si tiene algún problema con el funcionamiento de sus riñones.

• Si padece una enfermedad inflamatoria denominada lupus eritematoso sistémico (también llamado lupus o LES).

• Si padece una enfermedad que causa debilidad muscular, llamada miastenia gravis.

• Si está tomando otros medicamentos. Esto incluye todos los medicamentos que se pueden comprar sin receta, así como las hierbas medicinales y los medicamentos complementarios.

• Si alguna vez ha tenido una reacción alérgica a un medicamento.

Cómo tomar doxiciclina

• Read the leaflet in the pack before starting doxycycline. It explains how to take it and lists possible side effects.

• Take doxycycline exactly as your doctor tells you. It is usually one dose a day however some people will be prescribed two. For mouth ulcers you may be asked to take four doses a day.

• If taking capsules, you must swallow these whole with a glass of water during mealtime. Sit or stand while taking it, and do not take right before bed to avoid throat irritation.

• If you have been given dispersible tablets (Vibramycin-D®), you should stir these into a small glass of water to take them. Rinse the solution around your mouth for 2-3 minutes, and then spit it out.

• Si olvida tomar una dosis, tómela en cuanto se acuerde. Intente tomar el número correcto de dosis cada día, pero no tome dos dosis al mismo tiempo para compensar la dosis olvidada.

• Dependiendo del motivo del tratamiento, éste puede durar desde una semana hasta varios meses. Siga tomando doxiciclina hasta que termine el tratamiento, a menos que su médico le indique que lo interrumpa antes.

Aproveche al máximo su tratamiento

• Avoid taking antacids or supplements with iron, magnesium, or zinc within 2 hours before or after doxycycline, as they can make it less effective.

• La doxiciclina puede hacer que su piel se vuelva más sensible a la luz solar de lo habitual. Evite la luz solar intensa y no utilice camas solares. Utilice una crema solar con un factor de protección elevado en los días luminosos, incluso cuando esté nublado.

• This antibiotic may stop the oral typhoid vaccine from working. If you are having any vaccinations, make sure the person treating you knows that you are taking this medicine.

• You will be prescribed a brand of doxycycline that is appropriate for your need, as not all brands are suitable for all of these indications.

Cómo conservar la doxiciclina

• Mantenga todos los medicamentos fuera del alcance y de la vista de los niños.

• Almacenar en un lugar fresco y seco, lejos del calor y la luz directos.

Información importante sobre todos los medicamentos

Preguntas más frecuentes

How long does doxycycline take to work?

Doxycycline usually starts working within 24 to 48 hours. Most people notice improvement in their symptoms after 2 to 3 days, but you should keep taking the medicine for the full course prescribed, even if you feel better.

Can you drink alcohol with doxycycline?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in moderation while taking doxycycline as alcohol does not stop doxycycline from working. However, drinking too much can increase side effects such as upset stomach, dizziness, or dehydration. For best results limit your alcohol intake until you finish your course.

Is doxycycline safe to take during pregnancy?

No, doxycycline is generally not safe to take during pregnancy. It can affect the development of a baby’s bones and teeth, especially in the second and third trimesters. Always let your doctor know if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant so you can be prescribed a safer antibiotic.

Does doxycycline make you tired?

Doxycycline can make some people feel tired but it is not a common side effect. If tiredness is severe or doesn't go away, speak to your doctor.

How long does doxycycline stay in your system?

Doxycycline has a half-life of about 18-22 hours, which means it takes roughly 1-2 days for most of it to leave your system after your last dose. However, trace amounts can stay for a few days longer. It is usually fully cleared within 5 days.