DOXYCYCLINE is a semi-synthetic tetracycline
antibiotic that kills certain bacteria that cause infection or stops their growth. It’s used to treat many kinds of infections of
the skin, bone, stomach, respiratory tract, sinuses, ear and urinary tract. Doxycycline also treats Lyme disease, all forms of
Anthrax and certain sexually transmitted diseases. For those who travel to certain parts of the world where malaria is prevalent,
this medicament can be given to suppress the disease. It is the preferred medication for elderly patients exposed to all forms of
Anthrax.
SIDE EFFECTS: It is generally well-tolerated. The most
common side effects are diarrhea or loose stools, nausea, abdominal
pain, and vomiting. Tetracyclines, such as doxycycline, may cause tooth
discoloration if used in persons below 8 years of age. Exaggerated
sunburn can occur with tetracyclines; therefore, sunlight should be
minimized during treatment.
PREGNANCY: Doxycycline is secreted into breast milk. Since
tetracyclines can cause decreased bone, the use of tetracyclines in
nursing mothers is of concern. The physician must decide whether to
recommend that a nursing mother discontinue nursing during treatment
with tetracyclines or to choose a different antibiotic. Tetracycline
antibiotics can have toxic effects on development of bone in the fetus.
Therefore, they are not recommended during pregnancy unless there is no
other appropriate antibiotic..
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