Doxycycline is a useful antibiotic that can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions.The medication comes in pill and liquid forms.Follow the instructions of your doctor in both cases.Doxycycline can cause some side effects, but most can be treated at home.Make sure that your doctor knows your medical history so that he or she can prevent serious problems.
Step 1: There is a label for the medicine.
There are different dosages of doxycycline.The label on the side of the prescription should tell you how many pills you should take and how often.In most cases, you will take one pill a day.Ask your doctor if you have any questions about your medication.If you're told to take half of the pill, use a pill cutter to slice it in half.You can break it with your thumb and index finger.Don't chew, split, or crush delayed-release tablets.You can't eat for 1-2 hours before taking the pill if you are taking Oracea.You may be able to eat with other brands.If you are using doxycycline to prevent Malaria, you need to start taking it 1-2 days before you leave for the region where Malaria is prevalent.
Step 2: The pill can be Swallowed while standing or sitting.
The medication can be taken while standing, sitting, or walking.You may experience throat irritation if you take it while lying down or reclining.Taking a sip of water with the pill will help you swallow it.You can put the pill in soft food.Don't chew it.The amount of medicine your body absorbs may be reduced.
Step 3: Drink a full glass of water.
The glass needs to be filled with water.The water can help you swallow the pill.Drink the rest of the water.The pill will work better if you drink the full glass of water.
Step 4: Continue taking the medication.
Do not stop taking your medication because you feel better.It is possible that your infection could return.The full course of medication should be taken by you according to your doctor's instructions.If you're trying to prevent Malaria, this is also true.You need to take the medication for 4 weeks after you return.
Step 5: If it's almost time for the next dose, then take a missed dose immediately.
As soon as you remember, swallow the pill.skip the missed dose if you are about to take your next doseDon't double up on your medicine.The dose is determined by the strength of the medicine, the health issue in question, and body weight.There isn't a standard dose because of this.Depending on the medical problem you're having, the number of daily doses and the time between them can be different.If you have questions about taking a missed dose, contact your doctor.
Step 6: Shake the bottle.
This is done every time you take the medication.This will help you get the right amount of medication in each dose.
Step 7: You should pour out the right dose according to your doctor.
You need to know how much medicine you need in each dose on the label of your medication.You can measure the liquid with a cup or spoon that comes with the prescription.The side measures help you get the right dose.You should check the label for the frequencies of your doses.If you don't have a spoon or cup, you can get one at the pharmacy.Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Step 8: While sitting or standing upright, swallow the medication.
It will prevent irritation to your stomach and throat.You can stand, sit, or even walk.Take all the medication at once.
Step 9: Have a glass of water.
Aim for a glass of 8 ounces.The pill will work better if you drink the full glass of water.Continue to drink a lot of water and fluids while you are on the drug.
Step 10: Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
If it's close to time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one.Extra medicine shouldn't be taken in a single dose.
Step 11: The full course of medication is what you should take.
Your doctor should tell you how long you need to take it.Even if you feel better, don't stop taking it early.When you finish your round, there may be a little extra medication in the bottle.It's true if you're trying to prevent infections rather than treat them.
Step 12: If you have side effects, you should see the doctor.
Other symptoms include an upset stomach, blurred vision, sore throat, muscle or joint pain, and dizziness.Discuss treatment options with your doctor as soon as possible.It can take up to 2 months for a diarrhea to occur after you stop taking doxycycline.As soon as possible, see your doctor.Some of the medications can interact with doxycycline, so don't take them.Symptoms of intracranial hypertension include headaches, dizziness, and blurred vision.Women who are overweight are more at risk of this.
Step 13: If you have an upset stomach, you can take the medication with food or milk.
Take your medication after eating a full meal if you have a stomachache or nausea.You can drink milk instead of water after taking the pill.You may not get as much medication as you need if you take the pill this way.To make sure this is the right option for you, talk to your doctor first.
Step 14: If you use estrogen pills, use a second form of contraceptives.
It is possible to reduce the effectiveness of hormonal birth control.If you have sex while taking this medication, you should use condoms and other forms of birth control as well.You don't have to stop taking birth control.
Step 15: Protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays.
The sun can cause your skin to be more sensitive to it.Sun exposure should be avoided between the hours of 10 am and 3 pm while you are taking this medication.Wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and cover up as much of your skin as possible.
Step 16: Inform your doctor if you have any health issues.
Have you had a history of any of the following?If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should inform your doctor.If it's safe for you to take it, your doctor will make a decision.It's a good idea to make your doctor aware of your health problem even if it isn't included in this list.
Step 17: Inform your doctor if you are taking any other drugs or supplements.
Drug interactions with doxycycline can cause serious side effects.Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking any other drugs.They will decide if it's safe to take it.Warfarin is one of the medications known to interact with it.
Step 18: It's best to store the medication away from pets and children.
It's ideal to have a shelf or medicine cabinet.The cap needs to be tightly screwed on.Keep the bottle out of the sun and away from heat sources.It's a good idea to store liquid medication at room temperature.If a child or pet swallows the medication, call Poison Control.