Doxycycline
Doxycycline is a semi-synthetic, broad spectrum tetracycline antibiotic derived from methacycline. Tetracyclines are derivative of polycyclic naphthacenecarboxamide. They are bacteriostatic and effective against many gram positive and gram negative bacteria. Doxycycline is the first drug of choice for prophylaxis of "travelers diarrhoea".Doxycycline is administered orally. Antibiotics require constant drug level in body for therapeutic effect. This is achieved by taking the drug at regular interval of time throughout the day and night as prescribed. Doxycycline (HCl) is important to take the drug for the full time period as prescribed. If you discontinue drug, it may result in ineffective treatment.
Primary Characteristics
Doxycycline is also known as Doxycycline HCl, Doxycycline Hyclate.
It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Tetracycline.
It belongs to Antibacterial (Proetin synthesis inhibitor) pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antibiotic, Tetracycline Derivative pharmacological group.
Molecular Weight: 462 · pKa: 3.4, 7.7, 9.7 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 3 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 60 · Non-proprietary name: Doxycycline · pH: 7.5.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Doxycycline has an oral bioavailability is 69.75% (±23.25%).
Distribution: Doxycycline has a volume of distribution is 0.9-1.8 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 82-93%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via no significant, plasma half-life is 18-22 hr, renal excretion is 40%.
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Indications
Doxycycline is primarily indicated in conditions like Acne vulgaris, Anthrax, Breast cancer, Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, Genitourinary tract infections, GI infections, Heart failure, Malaria prophylaxis, Opthalmic infections, Plasmodium falciparum malaria, Pneumonia, Respiratory tract infections, Schizophrenia and other psychoses, Severe infections, Sinusitis, Soft tissue infections, To reduce degradation of pancreatic enzyme supplements.
Doxycycline is also indicated for secondary conditions like Adjunct in the treatment of P. Falciparum malaria, Adult growth hormone deficiency, Moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, Rosacea.
Contraindications
Doxycycline is contraindicated in conditions like Systemic lupus erythematosus, Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Doxycycline's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 100 mg | 100 mg | Every 24h | PO | Maintenance, As Required |
| 200 mg | 200 mg | — | PO | On first day. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | — | Not Recommended in this Age Group |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not recommended under 12 yrs. | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Doxycycline in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hypoplasia of enamel , Staining of developing teeth .
Doxycycline produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Pseudomembranous colitis , Anaphylaxis , Liver damage. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Doxycycline are GI disturbances.
Doxycycline is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Anaphylactoid purpura, Anorexia , Dysphagia, Erythematous rash, Exfoliative dermatitis, GI disturbance, Glossitis, Hemolytic anemia, Maculopapular rash, Nausea, Pericarditis , Photosensitivity, Skin rashes, Skin reactions, StomatitisX, Urticaria, Vaginitis.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Doxycycline may interfere in the diagnosis of The rise in blood urea , Elevations of SGPT and SGOT , Interference with Urinary Urobilinogen Levels , Rise in Eosinophil count .
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.6.2.2.3 — Tetracyclines
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Doxycycline in Pakistan: