Doxycycline Capsules 100mg

£0.50 per capsule

Key Points:

  • Effective for malaria prevention, especially in areas with drug-resistant strains
  • Active ingredient: Doxycycline hyclate 100mg
  • Start 2 days before travel, continue during your stay, and take for 4 weeks after leaving the malaria area
  • Available at MedCare Health Clinic for easy access and professional advice

Description

Doxycycline Capsules 100mg, available from MedCare Health Clinic, are an effective antibiotic used to prevent malaria in travellers visiting areas where malaria is prevalent. Doxycycline is particularly useful in regions where malaria parasites are resistant to other medications, providing protection against both Plasmodium falciparum and other strains of the malaria parasite.

Apart from malaria prevention, Doxycycline is also a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. However, for malaria prevention, it is especially valued for its affordability, ease of use, and effectiveness when taken correctly.

Available Strengths

  • Doxycycline 100mg Capsules

Directions for Use

For Malaria Prevention (Prophylaxis):

  • Adults: Take one capsule (100mg) daily with food.
  • Start taking the medication 2 days before travel to a malaria area.
  • Continue taking one capsule every day during your stay in the malaria region.
  • After leaving the malaria area, continue taking the capsules for 4 weeks to ensure full protection.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice on dosing and duration of treatment.

Ingredients

  • Active Ingredient: Doxycycline hyclate 100mg
  • Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, gelatin capsule, titanium dioxide.

How It Works

Doxycycline is a tetracycline-class antibiotic that works by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and parasites, including the malaria parasite. By preventing the malaria parasite from multiplying and spreading in the bloodstream, Doxycycline provides an effective prophylactic (preventive) solution for travellers to high-risk malaria regions.

Side Effects

While Doxycycline is generally well tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Sensitivity to sunlight (increased risk of sunburn)
  • Heartburn or indigestion

Less common but more serious side effects may include allergic reactions, severe skin rashes, or liver issues. If you experience severe symptoms, it’s important to stop the medication and consult a doctor immediately.

Precautions

  • Avoid excessive sun exposure: Since Doxycycline can increase your sensitivity to sunlight, it’s recommended to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing while on this medication.
  • Take with a full glass of water to prevent irritation of the oesophagus.
  • Do not lie down immediately after taking Doxycycline to reduce the risk of heartburn or throat irritation.
  • Avoid in pregnancy: Doxycycline is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential harm to the developing baby.

Patient Information Leaflet

For detailed instructions, precautions, and comprehensive guidance on Doxycycline Capsules 100mg, please refer to the Doxycycline Patient Information Leaflet.

FAQs

1. How soon should I start taking Doxycycline for malaria prevention?
You should start taking Doxycycline 2 days before entering a malaria-endemic area to ensure you have full protection against the parasite.

2. How long should I continue taking Doxycycline after leaving a malaria area?
It is crucial to continue taking Doxycycline for 4 weeks after leaving the malaria-risk area to ensure complete protection.

3. What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

4. Can Doxycycline be taken with other malaria medications?
Doxycycline is often used as a stand-alone treatment for malaria prevention, but in some cases, it can be combined with other medications. Always consult with your healthcare provider before combining treatments.