What is Amoxicillin. How quickly does Amoxicillin take effect. How is Amoxicillin available. What do I need to know before taking Amoxicillin. Does Amoxicillin interact with other medicines. How do I take Amoxicillin correctly. Can I take Amoxicillin with food or milk.

Understanding Amoxicillin: A Powerful Antibiotic

Amoxicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic widely used to combat bacterial infections. This broad-spectrum antibiotic stands out for its improved absorption compared to penicillin and its effectiveness against certain gram-negative bacteria. Its bactericidal properties enable it to kill bacteria by disrupting their cell walls, effectively halting their multiplication.

Amoxicillin is commonly prescribed for various infections, including:

• Gastrointestinal tract infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Respiratory tract infections
• Middle ear infections
• Tonsillitis
• Other ENT (ear, nose, and throat) diseases

The Science Behind Amoxicillin’s Effectiveness

Amoxicillin’s effectiveness lies in its ability to interfere with bacterial cell wall synthesis. By targeting the peptidoglycan layer of bacterial cell walls, it weakens the structure, causing the bacteria to burst under their own internal pressure. This mechanism makes amoxicillin particularly effective against a wide range of bacterial infections.

Amoxicillin Availability and Forms

Amoxicillin is a prescription-only medication throughout the European Union, reflecting its potent nature and the need for professional oversight in its use. It is available in various forms to suit different patient needs and treatment requirements:

• Tablets
• Infusions
• Suspensions

The dosage strength ranges from 50 mg to 1000 mg per unit, allowing for precise dosing based on the specific infection and patient factors. Amoxicillin is marketed under various trade names, including Clamoxyl速, Amoxilan速, Amoxi 1A Pharma速, and Amoxi HEXAL速.

Augmentin: A Powerful Combination

Amoxicillin is also available in a dual therapy formulation known as Augmentin, which combines amoxicillin with clavulanic acid. This combination enhances the antibiotic’s effectiveness by inhibiting beta-lactamase, an enzyme that can break down amoxicillin. While potent, this combination requires careful monitoring, especially in older patients or those with liver issues, due to its potential impact on liver function.

Timing and Absorption: How Quickly Does Amoxicillin Work?

Understanding the pharmacokinetics of amoxicillin is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike. Amoxicillin reaches its peak concentration in the bloodstream within 1 to 2 hours after administration. This rapid absorption contributes to its effectiveness in quickly targeting bacterial infections.

However, the onset of symptom relief may vary depending on several factors:

• The type and severity of the infection
• The patient’s overall health and immune system function
• The specific dosage prescribed
• Adherence to the prescribed regimen

While some patients may experience improvement within 24 to 72 hours, it’s crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms subside earlier. This practice helps prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Essential Precautions: What to Know Before Taking Amoxicillin

Before initiating amoxicillin treatment, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure safe and effective use. Patients should consult their healthcare provider if they have any of the following conditions or circumstances:

• Hypersensitivity to penicillin, beta-lactams, cephalosporins, sulphites, or any components of the medication
• History of allergies or asthma
• Severe gastrointestinal illness accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
• Impaired kidney function
• Viral infections, such as infectious mononucleosis (Pfeiffer’s glandular fever)

These factors can influence the safety and efficacy of amoxicillin treatment, potentially requiring dosage adjustments or alternative treatments.

Special Considerations for Kidney Function

Patients with impaired kidney function require special attention when prescribed amoxicillin. In such cases, healthcare providers may need to adjust the dosage or extend the interval between doses to prevent accumulation of the drug in the body. This personalized approach ensures effective treatment while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.

Navigating Drug Interactions: Amoxicillin and Other Medications

Understanding potential drug interactions is crucial for safe and effective antibiotic therapy. Amoxicillin can interact with various medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Key interactions to be aware of include:

• Other antibiotics (tetracyclines, macrolides, sulphonamides, chloramphenicol)
• Diuretics
• Gout medications (probenecid, allopurinol)
• Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
• Oral contraceptives

When combining amoxicillin with other medications, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure safety and efficacy.

Amoxicillin and Pain Relievers

Unlike some antibiotics, amoxicillin can generally be taken safely with common pain relievers such as ibuprofen. However, it’s always prudent to consult a healthcare professional before combining medications, as individual health factors may influence the appropriateness of such combinations.

Proper Administration: How to Take Amoxicillin Correctly

Adhering to the prescribed dosage and administration instructions is crucial for the effectiveness of amoxicillin treatment. Here are key points to remember:

• Follow the dosage schedule precisely as prescribed by your healthcare provider
• Take amoxicillin at evenly spaced intervals to maintain consistent blood levels
• Complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, unless it’s almost time for the next dose
• Never double up on doses to make up for a missed one

Proper administration ensures optimal effectiveness and helps prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Amoxicillin and Food Interactions

Amoxicillin can generally be taken with or without food. However, taking it with a meal can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects in some individuals. It’s important to note that while food doesn’t significantly affect the absorption of amoxicillin, certain foods or beverages may interact with the medication.

Amoxicillin and Dairy: Can You Take Antibiotics with Milk?

The question of whether antibiotics can be taken with milk is a common concern among patients. In the case of amoxicillin, the answer is generally yes. Unlike some antibiotics that can be affected by calcium-rich foods, amoxicillin’s absorption is not significantly impacted by dairy products.

However, it’s important to consider the following:

• While milk doesn’t interfere with amoxicillin’s effectiveness, it may delay its absorption slightly
• For optimal absorption, some healthcare providers may recommend taking amoxicillin on an empty stomach
• If gastrointestinal side effects occur, taking amoxicillin with a small amount of food or milk may help alleviate discomfort

As always, it’s best to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the administration of amoxicillin.

Other Dietary Considerations

While amoxicillin is generally not affected by most foods, maintaining a balanced diet during antibiotic treatment can support overall health and recovery. Probiotic-rich foods or supplements may be beneficial in maintaining gut health, especially if gastrointestinal side effects occur. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before adding any supplements to your regimen during antibiotic treatment.

Managing Side Effects and Monitoring Treatment

Like all medications, amoxicillin can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Skin rash
• Headache

Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own. However, severe allergic reactions, though rare, require immediate medical attention. Signs of a severe allergic reaction may include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Severe skin rash or hives

Patients should report any persistent or severe side effects to their healthcare provider promptly.

Monitoring Liver Function

For patients taking Augmentin (amoxicillin with clavulanic acid), especially those over 60 or with pre-existing liver conditions, regular monitoring of liver function may be necessary. This precaution helps detect any potential liver-related side effects early, allowing for timely intervention if needed.

Antibiotic Resistance: A Growing Concern

Antibiotic resistance is a global health challenge, and proper use of antibiotics like amoxicillin plays a crucial role in combating this issue. To help prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria:

• Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a healthcare professional
• Complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed
• Never share antibiotics with others or use leftover antibiotics from previous treatments
• Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of infections

By using antibiotics responsibly, we can help preserve their effectiveness for future generations.

The Role of Research and Development

Ongoing research into new antibiotics and alternative treatments is crucial in the fight against antibiotic resistance. Scientists are exploring novel approaches, including:

• Development of new classes of antibiotics
• Combination therapies to enhance effectiveness
• Bacteriophage therapy as an alternative to traditional antibiotics
• Immunomodulatory approaches to boost the body’s natural defenses

These advancements offer hope for more effective and sustainable ways to combat bacterial infections in the future.

Special Populations: Considerations for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Amoxicillin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, as with any medication, its use should be carefully evaluated by a healthcare provider, weighing the potential benefits against any risks.

Amoxicillin in Pregnancy

Amoxicillin is classified as a Category B drug for pregnancy, meaning animal studies have not shown a risk to the fetus, and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. However, it’s crucial to use amoxicillin during pregnancy only when clearly needed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Amoxicillin and Breastfeeding

Small amounts of amoxicillin can pass into breast milk, but it is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding. However, potential effects on the nursing infant, such as changes in bowel flora or allergic reactions, should be monitored. Breastfeeding mothers should always consult their healthcare provider before taking any medication.

Long-term Considerations and Follow-up Care

While amoxicillin is effective for treating many bacterial infections, proper follow-up care is essential for ensuring complete recovery and preventing complications. Patients should:

• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider
• Report any persistent symptoms or new concerns promptly
• Discuss any questions about their treatment or recovery process with their healthcare team

In some cases, additional tests or treatments may be necessary to ensure the infection has been fully resolved.

Importance of Preventive Care

While antibiotics like amoxicillin are crucial for treating bacterial infections, preventive measures play a significant role in overall health maintenance. Patients should focus on:

• Maintaining good hygiene practices
• Staying up-to-date with recommended vaccinations
• Adopting a healthy lifestyle to support immune function
• Seeking prompt medical attention for potential infections

By combining proper antibiotic use with preventive strategies, individuals can contribute to their long-term health and well-being while supporting global efforts to combat antibiotic resistance.

16 FAQs Inc. Intake and Side Effects of the Antibiotic

Amoxicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections. Compared to penicillin, amoxicillin can be better absorbed into the body, and it has a wider spectrum of action, as it is also effective against certain gram-negative bacteria. The antibiotic has a bactericidal effect: it kills bacteria by dissolving the cell walls of certain bacteria, thus preventing them from multiplying. We answer the 16 most frequently asked questions about amoxicillin.

The content on this page is provided for informational purposes only. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, you should talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. This is particularly important if you are taking multiple medications or have any existing medical conditions.

What is Amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is used to treat bacterial infections. These can be infections of the gastrointestinal tract or urinary and respiratory tract infections. In addition, the drug is often used in the treatment of middle ear infections, tonsillitis and other ENT diseases.

How quickly does Amoxicillin take effect?

Amoxicillin reaches its maximum concentration in the blood after 1 or 2 hours.

How is Amoxicillin available?

The purchase of antibiotics such as Amoxicillin is only possible throughout the EU with a doctor’s prescription. In addition to the tablets, it is also possible to obtain an infusion or suspension with Amoxicillin, whereby the active ingredient content is between 50 and a maximum of 1000 mg per unit, depending on the prescribed medication.

Amoxicillin is the generic name of the drug, which is sold under the trade names Clamoxyl®, Amoxilan®, Amoxi 1A Pharma® or Amoxi HEXAL®, among others.

Amoxicillin is also available in dual therapy as Augmentin (Amoxicillin plus Clavulanic acid). Clavulanic acid inhibits the enzyme beta-lactamase, which would otherwise break down amoxicillin. This allows Amoxicillin to work more strongly.

Since this fixed combination is considered to have a slightly higher probability of damaging the liver, it is especially important that older patients over 60 or people who have already been diagnosed with liver dysfunction have their blood and liver values checked regularly.

What do I need to know before taking Amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin must not be taken if you are hypersensitive to the active substance, such as penicillin, betalactam, cephalosporin, sulphites or any constituent of the medicine.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Amoxicillin in the following circumstances:

• Tendency to allergies
• A tendency to asthma
• Severe illness of the gastrointestinal tract (with vomiting and diarrhea)
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
• Impaired kidney function (it may be necessary to reduce the individual or total dose or extend the dosing interval in consultation with your doctor)
• Viral infections, e. g., Pfeiffer’s glandular fever (infectious mononucleosis)

Does Amoxicillin interact with other medicines?

It is important that amoxicillin is not combined with other antibiotics such as tetracyclines, macrolides, sulphonamides or chloramphenicol. It can have a negative effect on antibiotic therapy.

Diuretics (drug that makes the kidney produce more urine, should also be avoided), as the increased excretion of water also reduces the amount of antibiotics and thus its effect.

Taking medicines for gout at the same time, such as probenecid or allopurinol, can prevent the excretion of amoxicillin and thus dangerously increase concentration and promote allergic skin reactions.

In addition, the effect of blood thinners (anticoagulants) can be increased, which can lead to dangerous bleeding if you injure yourself.

As antibiotics can reduce the effect of the contraceptive pill, simultaneous use should be avoided. To maintain contraceptive protection, you should ask your doctor or pharmacist about a suitable contraceptive method. They will recommend condoms, diaphragms and cervical caps as alternatives.

As antibiotics influence the hormonal effect of other contraceptives such as the “morning-after pill” or the “three-month injection”, you should also ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on suitable contraceptives.

Taking Amoxicillin with painkillers such as Ibuprofen is not a problem. Although some antibiotics are not recommended to be taken at the same time as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen or Diclofenac, this does not apply to Amoxicillin. Nevertheless, when it comes to finding a suitable painkiller, a doctor or pharmacist should always be consulted for advice.

If you need to take other medicines in addition to Amoxicillin, you must always discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist first.

How do I take Amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is taken by infusion, juice or tablets, which are taken with a glass of water. Since both the amount and the time of taking it must be very individually adapted to the patient and his or her illness, it is essential that you follow your doctor’s instructions, whereby a maximum daily dose of 6000 mg of the active substance must not be exceeded. The usual dose is 1500-3000 g.

Normally, Amoxicillin is taken 2-3 doses a day, regardless of meals. The effectiveness of Amoxicillin is not affected by whether it is taken with, before or after a meal. However, if you do not feel well after taking it on an empty stomach or even get gastrointestinal problems, you can try to avert this by taking it at mealtime or afterwards. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you still do not feel better.

Taking probiotics while taking antibiotics can also alleviate or completely prevent the occurrence of gastrointestinal issues. In principle, this also makes sense, as healthy intestinal flora is important for a well-functioning immune system.

If you have concerns about your dosage or do not feel any improvement, you must not increase the dose on your own, but contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Should I make up for a missed dose of Amoxicillin?

If you forget to take Amoxicillin, continue taking it as normal at the next scheduled time without taking twice the amount.

How long can I take Amoxicillin?

The duration of use of Amoxicillin depends on the disease to be treated and is therefore prescribed by your doctor. It is important that the medicine is taken for at least 2-3 days after the symptoms have subsided so that the bacteria can be eliminated. In general, the duration of treatment is 7-10 days, and at least 10 days for streptococcal infections.

What is the best way to stop taking Amoxicillin?

If you want to stop taking Amoxicillin, this is possible without a gradual reduction of the dose, but you should always follow your doctor’s instructions. Often the patient’s condition improves long before the bacteria have been eliminated. Stopping the antibiotic early can result in the reinfection and the bacteria becoming resistant the antibiotic.

What are side effects of Amoxicillin?

As the possible uses of the active ingredient are relatively diverse and the dosages also vary greatly, you should be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects for your medicine and its dosage.

If you experience any of the following side effects, please inform your doctor. They will be able to advise you in detail and on an individual basis. Depending on the dose and duration of treatment, these side effects are possible:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Chills
• Penicillin allergy

More rarely, the following side effects occur:

• Inflammation of the colon
• Kidney problems (e.g., crystalluria)
• Dizziness
• Cramps, especially if kidney function is disturbed
• Hyperactivity
• Blood count changes

In very rare cases, taking Amoxicillin can cause damage to the liver and even hepatitis. Therefore, if you experience any of the following symptoms, inform your doctor immediately:

• Bloody diarrhea
• Darker urine or paler stools
• Blisters, redness or bleeding on the skin
• Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes (jaundice)
• Prolonged bleeding time

It is also important to know the signs of an allergic reaction. If you have an allergic reaction to Amoxicillin, you must see a doctor immediately.

Signs of a severe allergic reaction are:

• Skin rash, for example itchy, red or swollen skin.
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath and circulatory problems up to and including shock
• Worsening of the general condition

What to do in case of an Amoxicillin overdose?

As Amoxicillin is prescribed in different doses depending on the individual assessment by the doctor, it is important not to exceed these doses in order to avoid possible adverse effects. The dangers of Amoxicillin overdose are mainly the side effects of the drug, which can increase. In addition, the likelihood of these adverse effects occurring is also significantly increased. In the event of an overdose, inform your doctor immediately.

Can I take Amoxicillin during pregnancy and breast‑feeding?

Amoxicillin falls under Pregnancy Category B which means it may be acceptable for use. In this case animal studies show no risk but human studies not available. If you are pregnant, suspect you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. They will help you to weigh up the benefits and risks of pregnancy with amoxicillin.

Amoxicillin should not be used during breast-feeding as it can pass into breast milk in small amounts and cause diarrhea, as well as a fungal infection of the mucous membranes. For this reason, weaning is recommended, especially with high doses. With a lower amount of amoxicillin, you should consult your doctor to decide whether breast-feeding with amoxicillin is possible for you.

Can I do sports with Amoxicillin?

In general, doing challenging sports with Amoxicillin is not advisable. The body is already stressed by fighting the infection and the weakened intestinal flora (as antibiotics also attack good bacteria). Challenging sporting activity puts an additional strain on the weakened immune system and delays recovery. An infection that is carried over increases the risk of late complications such as heart muscle inflammation. In case of doubt, you should ask your doctor what is possible and sensible in your condition.

Can I consume dairy products with Amoxicillin?

Taking Amoxicillin with dairy products is completely safe. Although there are antibiotics whose effect is greatly weakened by the calcium contained in milk, this does not apply to Amoxicillin. You can safely consume yoghurt, milk, cream and other dairy products together with the medicine.

Can I drink coffee with Amoxicillin?

Although no adverse events have been recorded for the simultaneous intake of Amoxicillin with coffee, coffee and tea can interfere with the absorption of antibiotics. If you have any concerns about this, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Amoxicillin?

Alcohol can be consumed while taking Amoxicillin; the concern is that alcohol will delay the absorption of the medication.

The content on this page is provided for informational purposes only. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, you should talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. This is particularly important if you are taking multiple medications or have any existing medical conditions.

Doxycycline and Dairy: Should You Avoid It?

Doxycycline is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics in the United States: In 2019, this drug was prescribed more than 21 million times.

Certain foods, medications, herbal treatments, and supplements may prevent doxycycline from being fully absorbed by the body.

In some cases, they could render doxycycline ineffective. 

Dairy can make it harder for the body to absorb doxycycline.

In this article, I’ll explain more about this interaction, and tell you how much dairy is safe to eat while taking this medication.

I’ll also tell you more about doxycycline—what it is, what it’s used to treat, how to take it, and its potential side effects.

And I’ll list some other foods, beverages, supplements, and medicines you should avoid while taking doxycycline.

What Is Doxycycline?

Doxycycline is an antibiotic commonly prescribed by doctors and licensed healthcare providers for bacterial infections such as pneumonia, skin infections, and certain STIs, like chlamydia.

It can also be used following anthrax exposure, in the treatment of some types of acne, and to prevent malaria.

As a member of the tetracycline family of drugs, doxycycline works by decreasing a bacteria’s ability to make proteins.

As a result, bacteria can’t grow or flourish, giving your immune system a chance to fight the infection.

In the United States, doxycycline may be prescribed under brand names including Acticlate, Doryx, Mondox, or Vibramycin, or as a generic.

It is typically prescribed in tablet or capsule form, but is also available as an injection.

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Doxycycline uses

Doxycycline is used to treat a wide range of infections caused by bacteria, including:

• Acne 
• Urinary tract infections
• Bacterial intestinal infections
• Bacterial respiratory infections 
• Eye infections 
• Certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) 
• Periodontitis (gum disease)
• Anthrax

Doxycycline can also be used to prevent malaria.

Doxycycline only treats infections caused by bacteria.

It does not treat viral infections such as COVID-19, the flu, or the common cold.

Doxycycline And Dairy

How does dairy affect doxycycline?

Studies have found that dairy makes it harder for the body to absorb doxycycline,thus reducing its effectiveness.

In 1987, scientists found that study participants who included a “milk drink” with their pill absorbed significantly less of the medication than those who took doxycycline on an empty stomach.  

Calcium in dairy reactions with doxycycline, forming a substance that is harder for your intestines to absorb.

When this happens, less doxycycline is absorbed by your gastrointestinal tract.

It is not clear how much this affects how well doxycycline will work, so the CDC says to avoid dairy for a few hours before and after taking your doxycycline dose.

Can I have any dairy while taking doxycycline?

You don’t have to remove dairy from your diet entirely while taking doxycycline.

To ensure your dose is effective, though, avoid dairy products for at least two hours before and after your dose.

Some common dairy products you should avoid within two hours of doxycycline include milk, butter, cream, cheese, ghee, whey, whey protein, ice cream, yogurt, and frozen yogurt.

How To Take Doxycycline

Doxycycline should be taken with plenty of fluids, in an upright position, and according to the dose specified on your prescription label.

Never increase or decrease the dosage or the duration of your prescription, other than when instructed by your provider.

Doing so may increase your chance of experiencing side effects.

It’s best to space out your doses of doxycycline evenly and take it at a scheduled time every day.

This helps maintain a constant level of the antibiotic in your body and reduces the likelihood of forgetting to take your medication.

Finishing the entire course of doxycycline is important too, even if your symptoms start to improve. This will ensure the infection is completely treated.

Like all prescription medications, doxycycline comes with a patient information leaflet.

Read and follow these instructions carefully, as recommendations may vary according to different brands of doxycycline. 

Other Things To Avoid While Taking Doxycycline

Iron-rich foods

Research suggests that foods rich in iron and iron supplements may impact your body’s ability to absorb doxycycline.

Avoid eating iron-rich foods like sardines, beef, eggs, kale, tofu, and spinach around the same time as taking doxycycline.

As with dairy, eat these at least two hours before or after taking your medicine. 

Drinking alcohol

If you’re fighting an infection and taking antibiotics, it’s best to abstain from alcohol.

Drinking, especially heavily, is associated with a weakened immune system and will slow down your recovery.

If you have a medical history of liver problems or chronic alcohol consumption, and you mix alcohol with doxycycline, the antibiotic will be less likely to work well.

Using alcohol while taking antibiotics can also increase the risk of side effects like stomach irritation and nausea.

Getting typhoid and cholera vaccines

Doxycycline can make some vaccinations less effective at protecting you from disease, including the live, attenuated typhoid vaccine.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that antibiotics are stopped from three days before to three days after receiving this vaccine.

If you are unsure if this applies to you, inform the healthcare professional administering your vaccine of your recent doxycycline use.

They will be best placed to advise you on whether to proceed.

Certain medications, supplements And multivitamins

If you take several medications at once, a reaction may occur between the two drugs—this is called an interaction.

Sometimes, this can be harmful.

At this time, 191 drugs are identified as not mixing well with doxycycline, including bismuth and warfarin.

Iron supplements, multivitamins, calcium supplements, and antacids can also interact with doxycycline.

Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription medicines, OTC medicines, and supplements that you take.

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Potential Side Effects Of Doxycycline

One in 10 people will experience headaches, sensitivity to sunlight, nausea, and vomiting while taking doxycycline.

More serious side effects are rare, but can happen.

If you experience the following symptoms, seek urgent medical help:  

• Unexplained bruising or bleeding (including repetitive nosebleeds) combined with a sore throat, high temperature, and general tiredness
• Severe diarrhea that contains mucus or blood and lasts longer than 4 days
• Ringing or buzzing in your ears
• Joint or muscle pain which started after taking the medicine
• Severe headaches, vomiting, and problems with your vision
• A sore or swollen mouth, lips, or tongue
• Severe stomach pain, with or without bloody diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
• Pain or difficulty in swallowing, a sore throat, acid reflux, chest pain, or a reduced appetite
• Severe allergic reaction (signaled by hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face/throat)

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I wait to eat dairy after taking doxycycline?

Wait at least two hours to eat dairy after taking doxycycline.

How much does milk affect doxycycline?

The exact amount is not known. Some studies suggest that milk impacts doxycycline absorption rates by up to 30%.

What foods interfere with doxycycline?

Both dairy products and iron-rich foods can interfere with doxycycline if taken at the same time. Avoid eating these foods within two hours of your doxycycline dose. Some foods you should avoid taking with doxycycline include milk, butter, cheese, eggs, kale, and spinach.

How long do I have to wait to eat after taking doxycycline?

Please refer to the instructions in your medicine packet. Some brands of doxycycline encourage you to take doxycycline with food, while others suggest waiting a few hours before eating.

K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

K Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions,
and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

• Outpatient Antibiotic Prescriptions — United States, 2019. (2019).
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• Effect of food on doxycycline absorption. (1987).
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• Iron supplements: a common cause of drug interactions. (1991).
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• Doxycycline: antibiotic to treat bacterial infections. (2018).
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• Doxycycline: MedlinePlus Drug Information. (2017).
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• Doxycycline. (n.d.).
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• Questions and Answers for Consumers on Doxycycline. (2018).
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• Oral Doxycycline in the Management of Acne Vulgaris. (2015).
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4445892/

• Can I drink alcohol while taking antibiotics? (2021).
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• Interactions between Travel Vaccines & Drugs. (2019).
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• Doxycycline Interactions. (n.d.).
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• Doxycycline Prescribing Information. (2021).
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• Doxycycline medicinal forms. (n.d.).
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• Influence of milk on the bioavailability of doxycycline. (1989).
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• Interactions with the absorption of tetracyclines. (1976).
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Interaction of drugs and food » Pharmvestnik

It happens that a patient takes drugs in strict accordance with the regimen recommended by the doctor or prescribed in the instructions and obediently avoids taking them together with certain foods.

But from the point of view of a non-specialist, a sip from a cup that comes to hand is not food. Therefore, even a well-disciplined patient can sometimes take medicine with what they have to: tea, coffee, milk, compote, juice, carbonated drinks. And cause an undesirable interaction that, at best, will make the medication useless, at worst, it can increase or provoke dangerous side effects.

Milk

Milk interacts most actively with drugs among all drinking liquids.

The protein caseinogen, dissolved in the liquid part of milk in the form of a calcium salt, upon contact with gastric juice, turns into insoluble calcium caseinate, which binds many medicinal substances. What reduces their absorbability and, as a result, bioavailability and efficiency.

The assimilation of tetracycline antibiotics when drinking milk is reduced by 20-80%. Penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, lincomycin, ketoconazole and clotrimazole should not be taken with milk for the same reason. Milk and dairy products also interfere with the absorption and action of iron and caffeine supplements. In case of overdose, milk can be used as an antidote.

Due to the alkaline pH of milk, it cannot be combined with acidic drugs: salicylic acid derivatives, barbiturates, and antacids, whose action is aimed at reducing the acidity of gastric juice, cimetidine and ranitidine. For the same reason, pancreatin preparations and any preparations in an acid-resistant shell are not recommended to be taken with milk.

Milk should be eliminated from the diet or reduced to a minimum when treated with irreversible MAOIs (phenelzine, nialamide, isocarboxazid) due to the risk of developing tyramine, or cheese, syndrome, manifesting a sharp increase in blood pressure with dangerous consequences up to death.

However, some preparations require drinking milk. These are NSAIDs butadion, indomethacin, diclofenac, etc., glucocorticosteroids prednisolone, dexamethasone, etc., reserpine, the speed and completeness of absorption of which increases when interacting with milk, while milk forms a protective film on the gastrointestinal mucosa and thus reduces the aggressive effect on it. In order to protect the mucosa, it is also advisable to drink papaverine, dipyridamole, potassium iodide with milk.

Vitamin D and other fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, K) are best absorbed when taken with milk. However, this increases the risk of overdose.

Tea

This popular drink is often at hand when you need to take a pill. Meanwhile, it contains tannin and caffeine, which easily interact with various medicinal substances.

In particular, the alkaloids papaverine, reserpine, platifillin, the antipsychotics chlorpromazine and haloperidol are absorbed more slowly and lose their bioavailability upon contact with tea tannins. Tannin reduces the absorption of atropine, morphine, codeine, cimetidine, oral contraceptives.

Caffeine accelerates the elimination of ampicillin and steptomycin sulfate. When taken simultaneously with antidepressants and sympathomimetics, it can cause a sharp increase in pressure.

Coffee

In combination with eufillin, theophylline, theobromine and bronchodilators from the group of adrenomimetics, coffee may increase the risk of side effects. Cimetidine, macrolide antibiotics, ciprofloxacin, enoxacin, oral contraceptives, disulfiram, MAO inhibitors inhibit caffeine metabolism, which can lead to overexcitation, headaches, insomnia, tachycardia, increased pressure, and even mental disorders.

Coffee enhances the action of diuretics and insulin, and when taken in combination, it can cause an overdose of these drugs.

The effectiveness of sedatives is reduced if the patient regularly drinks coffee. In case of an overdose of sedatives, coffee is used as an antidote.

It is not recommended to combine coffee with the intake of cardiac glycosides, antiulcer drugs, iron preparations.

The combination of coffee with paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, metamizole sodium potentiates their analgesic effect. The action of theophylline in the presence of caffeine is enhanced and prolonged.

Sugary carbonated drinks

Iron and calcium ions in these drinks form sparingly soluble complexes with macrolides, azalides, tetracyclines and lincosamides, which reduces their effectiveness.

Alkaline mineral waters

These mineral waters change the pH level of the stomach to the alkaline side. Therefore, they cannot be washed down with pancreatin preparations, enteric-coated tablets and capsules, barbiturates.

In an alkaline environment, erythromycin and iodine preparations are better absorbed, sulfonamides pass into an ionic state, which facilitates the capture of drug molecules by microbial cells. In addition, the alkaline environment slows down the acetylation of sulfonamides, reduces crystalluria and facilitates the excretion of sulfonamides, so it is recommended to drink them with slightly alkaline mineral waters.

Juices

Grapefruit juice is one of the most dangerous products in combination with drugs. It inhibits the enzymatic activity of the liver and slows down the metabolism of more than 70% of the LP, as a result of which overdose phenomena with corresponding undesirable effects can be observed. Moreover, grapefruit juice is not just impossible to drink medicines – for the entire duration of treatment, it is recommended to exclude grapefruits from the diet.

Pineapple, lemon, orange, tangerine, grape juices should be excluded from the diet in the treatment of non-selective irreversible MAO inhibitors due to the high risk of hypertensive crisis that develops due to the presence of tyramine in these juices. When treated with selective MAO inhibitors, the risk is less, however, patients are advised to avoid drinking tyramine-containing drinks.

Cranberry juice and fruit drink, which have an anticoagulant effect, should not be taken during treatment with warfarin and other blood thinners.

Juice of chokeberry, viburnum, beetroot while taking antihypertensive drugs can cause a sharp drop in blood pressure, because these juices potentiate the action of antihypertensive drugs. For persistent hypertension that is difficult to control with therapeutic doses of drugs, these juices can be recommended as an additional therapy to reduce the drug load.

Tomato juice due to the content of folic acid sharply reduces the antibacterial effect of sulfonamides, worsens the effect of methotrexate. And vitamin K, contained in this juice, can reduce the effect of indirect anticoagulants.

Cherry juice may potentiate the effects of drugs metabolized in the liver, as the quercetin it contains inhibits one of the liver’s microsomal enzymes. In addition, cherry juice, due to its high sugar content, slows down the absorption of tetracyclines, isoniazid, metamizole sodium, furosemide, calcium chloride, ibuprofen.

Apple and pear juices also contain quercetin and may cause overdose of drugs metabolized in the liver.

Currant juice, like cherry juice, reduces the pharmacological effect of calcium chloride, ibuprofen, metamizole sodium, furosemide, isoniazid and tetracyclines by slowing down absorption. In addition, currant juice contains tyramine, which, in combination with MAO inhibitors, can cause headache, dizziness, heart pain, heart rhythm disturbances, profuse sweating, nausea, convulsions, mydriasis and other symptoms of a hypertensive crisis.

Acidic fruit and vegetable juices reduce the absorption of macrolides, ampicillin, cycloserine, form chelate complexes with digitalis preparations, xanthine derivatives, reduce the effect of antacids, drotaverine, increase the toxicity of antifungal drugs, impair the absorption of sulfonamides and furosemide. They enhance the effect of salicillates, barbiturates, nalidixic acid, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, nitrofurans, buformin, up to an overdose. Acidic juices can be washed down with iron and calcium preparations, their digestibility improves from this.

the best solution for farmers

Antibiotics in agriculture have long been widely used. Today it is difficult to imagine a Russian farm that would be “antibiotics free” , although there are entrepreneurs who do not give up trying to put into practice the idea of ​​an organic farm – with clean feed, without the use of antibiotic therapy, without the addition of growth hormones, etc.

Cost milk production with low herd productivity on such farms is so high that the costs are not paid off even by the exorbitant final price of an organic product, which makes it inaccessible to most consumers-connoisseurs of organic products. More often under signs Organic and Bio in our stores they sell not products of organic farms, but a high-quality, but quite a “non-organic” product. The increased price for it is not a consequence of the high cost of production, but of inflated marketing budgets for its promotion. Of course, there are also real organic farms, but rather it is still a foreign reality.

Antibiotics usually get into the milk given by cows on “normal”, non-organic farms in three ways: with feed, as a result of preventive measures for the veterinary treatment of the herd, in particular its vaccination, and as a result of treatment with preparations containing antibiotics. In crop production, along with specific antibiotics, streptomycin, chlortetracycline, oxytetracycline are widely used. Antibiotics can also be added in small amounts to prepared feeds and premixes for cows. Determining the presence of antibiotics in feed under farm conditions is an almost impossible task due to its high cost and the imperfection of existing detection methods. In addition, sometimes farmers themselves add small amounts of antibiotics to the feed in order to prevent diseases in cows. Interestingly, in Denmark, the decision to stop the addition of antibiotics to cattle feed has led to a dramatic increase in the use of antibiotics for therapeutic purposes. No matter how correct and advanced the keeping of cows on the farm, sooner or later, the problem arises of the need to treat mastitis – and this is again antibiotics.

For the entire period of treatment, the cow is placed in a quarantine department and kept separately from the main herd. Milk from under such a cow during the entire time of her treatment with antibiotics, including the period of their withdrawal from the body of the cow, must be disposed of. In large farms, all these requirements are strictly observed, but in smaller farms there are also violations. Most farmers rely on the standards for the elimination of antibiotics from the cow’s body, specified in the instructions for the veterinary drug – usually 5-10, sometimes 20 days . But, unfortunately, there are also unscrupulous manufacturers who indicate the timing of the withdrawal of drugs with errors. In addition, the body of each individual cow may react differently to the effect of the drug: in one cow it is excreted from the body faster, in another – a little longer. Delaying the transfer of cows to the main herd leads to additional costs and loss of income for the farmer. Early removal of the cow from the quarantine zone entails the risk of getting the antibiotic into the milk delivered to the dairy and, as a result, the risk that the products will be rejected at the reception. Such risks increase manifold in the “low milk” season , when large dairies expand their raw material zone to include more suppliers in order to load capacity, and suppliers, in turn, increase the temptation to increase income by delivering more milk – then milk from recently treated cows.

In accordance with the current Technical Regulations of the Customs Union, testing of raw milk for traces of antibiotics is not mandatory for agricultural producers and all responsibility for the quality of milk going to processing lies entirely with the dairy. It is quite understandable that farmers want to increase profitability by reducing the cost of milk production, including by keeping the cost of veterinary control checks low. However, such savings can turn out for the economy tangible financial losses . On the forums of farmers, there are often indignant reports that the dairy rejected the milk brought from the farm, having found an antibiotic in it, although, according to the farmers themselves, the time of keeping the mastitis cow separately from the herd was observed, the milk was disposed of in accordance with the drug withdrawal schedule. The conscientiousness of employees who follow the instructions of a veterinarian, or suppliers of veterinary drugs, feed, and even a dairy plant, allegedly seeking in this way to reduce the purchase price of raw materials, is called into question. To avoid such situations, there is a very simple solution – use on the farm rapid tests to determine the residual amount of antibiotics in milk. They should be used both when deciding whether to move a cow from a quarantine to a general area after treatment, or before handing over the milk to the dairy.

It is necessary to control milk, at least for four groups of antibiotics – beta-lactams, tetracyclines, streptomycin and chloramphenicol (levomycetin), – the most commonly used in agriculture and checked on a mandatory basis by the receiving laboratory of the dairy. The correct solution for this test is for the farm to use the same test kit used by the dairy, or to use a test kit with higher sensitivity. Such a control scheme eliminates discrepancies with the results of testing in the laboratory of the plant and the return of milk to the farmer.

In order to reduce the risks of returning milk to a plant that uses GOST control methods at acceptance, ATL has prepared a special solution for farms – a combination of test systems from the Belgian manufacturer Unisensor: a set of express tests ANKAR® Milk Test 4 (inexpensive tests with high sensitivity) + 4SENSOR express test kit (test sensitivity is close to the requirements of TR TS, tests are included in GOST and, in accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation, can be used for arbitration). The sensitivity scales of the test systems are calibrated on identical milk samples and adapted to the Russian raw areas.

The proposed combination of two test systems is the optimal solution to the problem of milk control by farms, since most factories use the input introduced in GOST 32219 to test input milk, in accordance with their Production Control Programs.-2013 reliable test system 4SENSOR, fully compliant with the requirements of TR TS 021/2013TR and TS 033/2013.

The ANKAR® Milk Test 4 test system is manufactured by Unisensor using the same materials and technologies that are used in the manufacture of 4SENSOR test systems. Unisensor’s standardized controls ensure that the test kits are of unrivaled quality. The entire production chain is located in Belgium. Thus, today 4SENSOR and ANKAR® Milk Test 4 are, perhaps, the only tests presented on the Russian market, completely produced in Europe.

The high sensitivity of the ANKAR® Milk Test 4 test system makes it possible to determine antibiotics even in the smallest concentrations with the maximum list of antibiotics in the 4 studied groups.