Doxicap
Generic Name
Doxycycline
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
doxicap 100 mg capsule | ৳ 2.20 | ৳ 22.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Doxicap-100 mg capsule contains Doxycycline, a broad-spectrum tetracycline antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, and certain sexually transmitted infections. It is also used for malaria prophylaxis and severe acne.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Standard dosage for most infections: 200 mg on the first day (100 mg every 12 hours), followed by 100 mg once daily or 50 mg every 12 hours. For severe infections, 100 mg every 12 hours may be continued. Dosage varies by specific indication.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required in elderly patients, but caution is advised in those with significant hepatic dysfunction.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment is typically needed for patients with renal impairment, as doxycycline is predominantly excreted through the feces.
How to Take
Take the capsule with a full glass of water, preferably with food or milk to minimize gastric irritation. Avoid taking with antacids, iron supplements, or calcium-containing products. Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the dose to prevent esophageal irritation.
Mechanism of Action
Doxycycline acts by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. It reversibly binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, preventing the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the ribosomal acceptor site, thereby inhibiting bacterial growth and replication.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects vary based on the infection, usually within hours to days of initiating therapy.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged via the feces through intestinal wall secretion (approximately 70%), with a smaller portion (10-40%) excreted via the urine. This makes it suitable for patients with renal impairment.
Half life
The plasma half-life is approximately 18-22 hours, allowing for once or twice daily dosing.
Absorption
Doxycycline is well absorbed orally, typically 90-100%. Absorption is reduced by dairy products, antacids, and iron preparations.
Metabolism
It is partially metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to doxycycline or other tetracyclines.
- Pregnancy (especially during the second and third trimesters) due to potential for permanent tooth discoloration and bone growth inhibition in the fetus.
- Lactation (breastfeeding mothers).
- Children under 8 years of age (risk of permanent tooth discoloration).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring close monitoring of INR.
Penicillins
May interfere with the bactericidal action of penicillins, avoid concomitant use.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, advising additional birth control methods.
Antacids and Iron Supplements
Can decrease the absorption of doxycycline. Take doxycycline 1-2 hours before or 2-3 hours after these.
Retinoids (e.g., isotretinoin)
Increased risk of pseudotumor cerebri; avoid concomitant use.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, hepatotoxicity has been reported. Management should involve immediate gastric lavage or induction of emesis. Supportive care should be provided as needed. Hemodialysis is not effective in removing doxycycline.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Doxycycline is categorized as Pregnancy Category D. It can cause permanent tooth discoloration and inhibition of bone growth in the fetus if administered during the second and third trimesters. It is excreted in breast milk and can cause similar effects in nursing infants; therefore, it is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to doxycycline or other tetracyclines.
- Pregnancy (especially during the second and third trimesters) due to potential for permanent tooth discoloration and bone growth inhibition in the fetus.
- Lactation (breastfeeding mothers).
- Children under 8 years of age (risk of permanent tooth discoloration).
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, requiring close monitoring of INR.
Penicillins
May interfere with the bactericidal action of penicillins, avoid concomitant use.
Oral Contraceptives
May reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, advising additional birth control methods.
Antacids and Iron Supplements
Can decrease the absorption of doxycycline. Take doxycycline 1-2 hours before or 2-3 hours after these.
Retinoids (e.g., isotretinoin)
Increased risk of pseudotumor cerebri; avoid concomitant use.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, hepatotoxicity has been reported. Management should involve immediate gastric lavage or induction of emesis. Supportive care should be provided as needed. Hemodialysis is not effective in removing doxycycline.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Doxycycline is categorized as Pregnancy Category D. It can cause permanent tooth discoloration and inhibition of bone growth in the fetus if administered during the second and third trimesters. It is excreted in breast milk and can cause similar effects in nursing infants; therefore, it is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, consult the packaging for exact expiry.
Availability
Pharmacies
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Doxycycline has undergone extensive clinical trials supporting its efficacy and safety for a wide range of bacterial infections. Ongoing research explores its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties for conditions like rosacea and periodontal disease.
Lab Monitoring
- For prolonged therapy, periodic laboratory evaluation of organ systems, including hematopoietic, renal, and hepatic studies, is advisable.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize patient counseling regarding photosensitivity and precautions for esophageal irritation (take with ample water, remain upright).
- Stress the importance of completing the full course of treatment to prevent antibiotic resistance.
- Caution against concomitant use with antacids, iron, and dairy products; advise appropriate spacing.
Patient Guidelines
- Always take Doxicap with a full glass of water.
- Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medicine to prevent esophageal irritation.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial UV light; use sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
- Do not take Doxicap with dairy products, antacids, or iron supplements. Allow at least 1-2 hours between taking Doxicap and these products.
- Complete the entire course of medication as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel better.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Doxycycline may cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Practice good sun protection, especially when outdoors.
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