Tetracycline (PDF)

Tetracycline (Doxycycline, Vibramycin)
What is it?
This medication is used to treat bacterial infections.

Inform your provider if:
* You have ever had an allergic reaction to this medicine or any tetracycline drug.
* You are pregnant, are trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
* You have liver or kidney disease.

Use:
* This medication is taken orally (by mouth).
* Take this medication with a full 8 ounce glass of water.
* Doxycycline can be taken with food or milk to prevent GI upset.
* Continue taking this medication as prescribed, even if you start to feel better.
* Do not miss any doses. If you do miss a dose, take the dose as soon as possible. Do not double dose.
* Call the office if your symptoms do not get better or if you get worse.
* Do not take antacids, calcium supplements, or magnesium-containing laxatives within two hours of the time you take this medication.
* Do not take iron preparations (including multivitamins) within three hours of the time you take this medication.
* Avoid drinking alcohol while on this medication if you have a history of liver disease.
* Some people who take this medication may become more sensitive to sunlight; avoid direct sunlight if possible while on this medication.

Side effects:
*
* Dizziness
* Nausea/vomiting
* Sore tongue or mouth
* Darkening or discoloration of the tongue
* Cramps or burning feeling in the stomach
* Diarrhea
* Itching of the rectal or genital area

Call the office if you experience:
*
* Abdominal pain
* Loss of appetite
* Yellowing of the skin or eyes
* Headache
* Visual changes

Things to remember with any medication:
* Keep medications away from children.
* Store medications in a cool, dark, dry environment.
* Throw away medicine that is outdated.
* Take medicine as prescribed.

Written by the Women’s Group Practitioners Last Reviewed in November 2009
© Copyright 2009 The Women’s Group PC 1