Unidox
Generic Name
Doxycycline
Manufacturer
Unimed & Unihealth Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| unidox 100 mg capsule | ৳ 2.50 | ৳ 25.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Unidox 100 mg Capsule contains Doxycycline, a broad-spectrum tetracycline antibiotic used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin infections, and certain sexually transmitted diseases.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typical dose is 100 mg once or twice daily, depending on the severity and type of infection. For severe infections, 200 mg on the first day (loading dose) followed by 100 mg daily.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is generally required for elderly patients based on age alone. However, caution should be exercised in patients with underlying hepatic impairment.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment, as doxycycline is primarily eliminated by non-renal routes.
How to Take
Take the capsule whole with a full glass of water, preferably in an upright position (sitting or standing) to prevent esophageal irritation. It can be taken with food or milk if gastrointestinal upset occurs, but avoid taking it with antacids, iron supplements, or dairy products for 1-2 hours before or after to ensure proper absorption.
Mechanism of Action
Doxycycline inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by reversibly binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, thereby preventing the attachment of aminoacyl tRNA to the acceptor site on the mRNA-ribosome complex.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antibacterial effects begin within a few hours of administration, depending on the infection.
Excretion
Primarily excreted unchanged in feces via biliary and renal routes, with some urinary excretion. No significant accumulation in renal impairment.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is 16-22 hours, allowing for once or twice daily dosing.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, approximately 90-100% bioavailability. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 2-3 hours.
Metabolism
Not extensively metabolized in the liver; a portion undergoes enterohepatic recirculation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to doxycycline or other tetracyclines
- Pregnancy (especially during the second and third trimesters) and lactation
- Children under 8 years of age (due to risk of permanent tooth discoloration and bone growth inhibition)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin; monitor INR closely.
Penicillins
Tetracyclines can interfere with the bactericidal action of penicillins. Avoid concomitant use.
Oral contraceptives
May decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Advise alternative birth control methods.
Retinoids (e.g., isotretinoin)
Risk of benign intracranial hypertension. Avoid concomitant use.
Antacids (containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium) and Iron preparations
Can decrease doxycycline absorption. Separate administration by 2-3 hours.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, supportive measures should be taken. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Doxycycline is not readily removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Doxycycline is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause permanent tooth discoloration (yellow-gray-brown) and inhibition of bone growth in the fetus. It is also contraindicated in lactating mothers as it is excreted in breast milk and can affect the nursing infant.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to doxycycline or other tetracyclines
- Pregnancy (especially during the second and third trimesters) and lactation
- Children under 8 years of age (due to risk of permanent tooth discoloration and bone growth inhibition)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin; monitor INR closely.
Penicillins
Tetracyclines can interfere with the bactericidal action of penicillins. Avoid concomitant use.
Oral contraceptives
May decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Advise alternative birth control methods.
Retinoids (e.g., isotretinoin)
Risk of benign intracranial hypertension. Avoid concomitant use.
Antacids (containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium) and Iron preparations
Can decrease doxycycline absorption. Separate administration by 2-3 hours.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
In case of overdose, supportive measures should be taken. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Doxycycline is not readily removed by hemodialysis.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Doxycycline is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause permanent tooth discoloration (yellow-gray-brown) and inhibition of bone growth in the fetus. It is also contraindicated in lactating mothers as it is excreted in breast milk and can affect the nursing infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
2 to 3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Doxycycline has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials for its efficacy across a wide range of bacterial infections and specific conditions like malaria prophylaxis and sexually transmitted infections. Its use is supported by decades of clinical evidence.
Lab Monitoring
- Long-term therapy may require periodic monitoring of kidney and liver function.
- Complete blood count (CBC) may be monitored with prolonged use.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of patient counseling regarding photosensitivity and proper administration to prevent esophageal irritation.
- Strictly contraindicated in pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children under 8 years due to adverse effects on developing bones and teeth.
- Be aware of potential interactions with anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, and antacids.
Patient Guidelines
- Complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial UV light; use sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
- Take with plenty of water to prevent esophageal irritation and at least 1-2 hours away from dairy products, antacids, or iron supplements.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
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
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent secondary infections.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol consumption as it may worsen some side effects.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.