Doxycycline Hydrochloride Capsules, Form : Tablet

Doxycycline hydrochloride tablets are a form of the antibiotic doxycycline, specifically a salt formulation (doxycycline hyclate). They are a widely used medication for treating a variety of bacterial infections and other conditions.

 

What It Is and How It Works

 

Doxycycline hydrochloride is a water-soluble form of doxycycline. As with other forms of the drug, it belongs to the tetracycline class of antibiotics and works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It does this by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, which prevents them from producing the proteins necessary for their growth and survival. This action is "bacteriostatic," meaning it stops the bacteria from multiplying, allowing the body's immune system to clear the infection.

 

Common Uses

 

Doxycycline hydrochloride tablets are prescribed for a broad range of medical conditions, including but not limited to:

• Respiratory Infections: Such as bacterial pneumonia and bronchitis.

• Skin Conditions: Effective as an adjunct therapy for severe acne and for managing the inflammatory lesions of rosacea.

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Caused by susceptible bacteria.

• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Used to treat infections like chlamydia and syphilis.

• Lyme Disease: A common treatment for this tick-borne illness.

• Malaria: Used for both the treatment and prevention of malaria, particularly in areas with chloroquine-resistant strains.

• Other Infections: Doxycycline hydrochloride is also used for a variety of other infections, including those caused by Rickettsia (e.g., Rocky Mountain spotted fever), Mycoplasma, and Ureaplasma.

 

Dosage and Administration

 

The dosage and duration of treatment with doxycycline hydrochloride tablets vary depending on the specific condition being treated, its severity, and the patient's age and weight.

• For most infections: A typical adult dosage is 200 mg on the first day (administered as 100 mg every 12 hours), followed by a maintenance dose of 100 mg once daily. For more severe infections, the maintenance dose may be 100 mg every 12 hours.

• For skin conditions like rosacea: Lower, sub-antimicrobial doses are often used, such as 40 mg once daily, to leverage the drug's anti-inflammatory properties without contributing to antibiotic resistance.

• For malaria prevention: The usual dose is 100 mg once daily, beginning 1-2 days before travel to a malarious area and continuing for four weeks after leaving the area.

It is crucial to take the tablet with a full glass of water and while in an upright position (sitting or standing) to prevent irritation of the esophagus. It is also advised to avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication. While some forms can be taken with food to reduce stomach upset, others, particularly the delayed-release formulations, may need to be taken on an empty stomach. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.

 

Potential Side Effects

 

Common side effects of doxycycline hydrochloride tablets are similar to those of other forms of doxycycline and include:

• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

• Photosensitivity (increased risk of sunburn)

• Oral or vaginal thrush (yeast infections)

• Irritation of the esophagus (esophagitis)