Doxycycline Capsule

Doxycycline Capsule is an antibiotic capsule containing doxycycline hydrochloride as the active ingredient, with the exact strength shown on the pack label in each capsule. It belongs to the tetracycline class of antibiotics and is used to treat susceptible bacterial infections. Doxycycline Capsule may be prescribed for conditions such as respiratory, skin, urinary, sexually transmitted, and other bacterial infections, depending on the diagnosis. The Actavis, New Zealand pack contains 10 capsules.

How it works: Doxycycline works by stopping bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow and multiply. In capsule form, the medicine is swallowed and absorbed into the body to help clear the infection over time.

Because this is the exact labeled strength in capsule form, Doxycycline Capsule may be chosen when a clinician wants that specific dose in a swallowable capsule rather than a different tablet or lower-strength capsule. It is not a one-size-fits-all antibiotic strength; the doctor selects it based on the infection, the patient’s age and size, and how much doxycycline is needed over the treatment course. Higher or lower doses can change how often it is taken and how strongly side effects are felt.

• Bacterial respiratory tract infections
• Acne and other skin infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Certain sexually transmitted infections
• Other infections caused by susceptible bacteria

• Swallow the Doxycycline Capsule whole with a full glass of water.
• Take it while sitting or standing upright, and stay upright for at least 30 minutes afterward to reduce throat irritation.
• Do not lie down right after taking the capsule.
• If it upsets your stomach, it may be taken with food or milk, but follow the prescriber’s directions because food can affect absorption.
• Take it exactly at the times prescribed and finish the full course even if you feel better.
• Avoid taking it with antacids, iron, zinc, magnesium, or calcium supplements at the same time; separate doses as directed.

Each Doxycycline Capsule provides the labeled dose of doxycycline in capsule form. How often it is taken depends on the infection and the prescriber’s plan; some regimens use one capsule once daily, while others use it more than once daily. The maximum daily amount is determined by the doctor and should not be increased on your own.

Do not change your dose or stop the medicine without speaking to your doctor.

Common side effects of Doxycycline may include:

• Nausea
• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Heartburn or throat irritation, especially if the capsule is taken without enough water
• Sensitivity to sunlight or sunburn
• Mild headache

• Do not take Doxycycline Capsule if you have had an allergic reaction to doxycycline or other tetracycline antibiotics.
• This medicine can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so use sun protection and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
• Take the capsule with plenty of water and do not take it right before lying down, as it can irritate the esophagus.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, because doxycycline may not be appropriate.
• Use caution if you have liver disease, swallowing problems, or a history of esophageal irritation.
• Avoid taking it at the same time as iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, or antacid products because they can reduce absorption.
• Doxycycline may affect how some people feel, so be careful driving or using machinery if you feel dizzy or unwell.

• Antacids containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or bismuth
• Iron supplements and multivitamins with minerals
• Calcium supplements, dairy-heavy timing, or fortified products taken together with the dose
• Warfarin and other blood thinners
• Penicillins or other antibiotics where your prescriber wants to review combined use

Store Doxycycline Capsule in its original strip or box at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light.