Vibramycin (doxycycline)
Vibramycin is an antibiotic that helps in treating bacterial infections, like Rocky Mountain spotted fever, respiratory tract infections, chlamydia, urinary tract infections, gonococcal infections, and inhalational anthrax. This medication can be even used to treat intestinal infections and severe acne.
Dosage
The dosage of Vibramycin (doxycycline) can vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the severity of the infection, and other individual factors. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the prescribed label.
For adults, the usual dosage of Vibramycin for most infections is 100 to 200 milligrams (mg) taken orally once daily or divided into two equal doses every 12 hours. The duration of treatment may vary depending on the type and severity of the infection.
For pediatric patients, the dosage is usually based on body weight and may differ. It is important to consult your healthcare provider for precise dosage instructions for children.
Composition
Vibramycin is a synthetic drug originating from ocytetracycline. It is antibacterial in nature and available as Vibra-Tabs, Vibramycin Hyclate, Viramycin Calcium, and Vibramycin Monohydrate (doxycycline monohydrate). The active ingredient present in vibramycin is doxycycline.
The inactive ingredients in the vibramycin tablets are:
- Propylene glycol
- Magnesium stearate
- Hypromellose
- Ethylcellulose
- Microcrystalline cellulose
- Titanium oxide
- Yellow 6 Lake
- Talc
- Sodium lauryl sulphate
The inactive ingredients are different in the different forms of vibramycin.
Uses
Vibramycin helps in the treatment of various bacterial infections and acne. It even helps in the prevention of malaria. Vibramycin is a tetracycline antibiotic. It stops the growth of the bacteria in the body.
This drug can be used only for treating infections caused by bacteria. They do not help in curing viral infections (like common cold and flu). Misuse and unnecessary usage of this drug can reduce its effectiveness.
Side-effects
There are many side-effects associated with the use of vibramycin which may require medical attention. Some of these side-effects are mentioned below:
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Chest tightness
- Swelling of the feet or lower legs
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Sores in the mouth
- Stomach cramps
- Sore throat
- Reddish skin
- Redness or soreness of the eyes
- Pain
- Numbness or tingling of the feet, face, or hands
- Large and hive-like inflammation on the face, lips, legs, tongue, sex organs, feet, throat, or hands
- Nausea and vomiting
- Joint and muscle pain
- Joint inflammation
- Increased thirst
- Swelling near the tongue, eyes and eyelids, lips
- Rashes, itching, hives or welts
- Fever
- Headache
- Increased heart rate
- Feeling of discomfort
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Dizziness
- Decreased appetite
- Bloody, watery, and severe diarrhoea
- Clay-coloured stools
- Abdominal tenderness
- Cough
- Bloating
- Dark urine
- Vomiting blood
- Severe sunburn
- Scaly skin
- Painful and difficult urination
- Nosebleeds
- Decrease in the vision
- Double vision
- Increase in the skin sensitivity to light
- Heartburn
- Chills
- Cracks appearing on the skin
- Tarry, black stools
- Bleeding gums
- Blurred vision
- Unusual weakness and tiredness
- Unusual loss of weight
Contraindications
Under the following conditions, the patient should not be prescribed this medication:
- Problems related to passing food through the food pipe
- Clostridium Difficile Bacteria Related Colitis
- High pressure in the skull
- Pregnancy
- Allergic reaction to tetracyclines
Vibramycin and pregnancy
Any pregnant woman should be refrained from taking this medication. It can cause damage to the teeth of the infant in the last half of pregnancy. The doctor should be well aware that the patient is not pregnant while prescribing this medication.
Some frequently asked questions about Doxycycline Monohydrate
What is doxycycline monohydrate?
Doxycycline monohydrate is an antibiotic medication that belongs to the tetracycline class. It is commonly used to treat various bacterial infections.
What conditions are typically treated with doxycycline monohydrate?
Doxycycline monohydrate is used to treat a wide range of infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, sexually transmitted infections, certain eye infections, and certain types of acne.
How does doxycycline monohydrate work?
Doxycycline monohydrate works by inhibiting the growth and spread of bacteria. It does this by preventing the bacteria from producing essential proteins required for their survival and reproduction.
How is doxycycline monohydrate taken?
Doxycycline monohydrate is usually taken orally in the form of tablets or capsules. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the prescribed label. Doxycycline should be taken with a full glass of water and can be taken with or without food, although taking it with food may help minimize stomach upset.
Are there any common side effects of doxycycline monohydrate?
Common side effects of doxycycline monohydrate may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach upset, photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight), and allergic reactions. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it is important to contact your healthcare provider.
Can doxycycline monohydrate interact with other medications?
Yes, doxycycline monohydrate can interact with certain medications, including antacids, iron supplements, and medications that contain aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or zinc. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
Can doxycycline monohydrate be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
It is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking doxycycline monohydrate. Your doctor will assess the potential risks and benefits and determine if it is suitable for you.
Can I stop taking doxycycline monohydrate if I feel better?
No, it is essential to complete the full course of doxycycline monohydrate treatment as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. Stopping the medication prematurely can lead to incomplete eradication of the bacteria and increase the risk of recurrent or resistant infections.
Are there any precautions or warnings associated with doxycycline monohydrate?
Doxycycline monohydrate should be used with caution in individuals with a history of allergies, liver or kidney disease, or gastrointestinal disorders. It may also interact with certain medical conditions or affect the effectiveness of contraceptives. Discuss your medical history and current medications with your doctor before taking doxycycline monohydrate.
How should doxycycline monohydrate be stored?
Doxycycline monohydrate tablets or capsules should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep them out of reach of children and dispose of any expired or unused medication properly.
