Doxycycline: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions

Brand names: doxycycline

# Doxycycline: What You Need to Know Doxycycline is an antibiotic medicine that fights bacterial infections in your body. Doctors prescribe it to treat many different types of infections, including skin infections, respiratory infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying. This medicine is taken by mouth, usually as a tablet or capsule, and your doctor will tell you how much to take and for how long. Before taking doxycycline, it's important to know some safety information. Tell your doctor if you're taking other medicines, especially blood thinners, antacids, or penicillin antibiotics, because doxycycline can interact with these drugs. Don't take antacids, calcium supplements, or iron supplements within a few hours of taking doxycycline, as they can prevent your body from absorbing the medicine properly. Possible side effects can include nausea, upset stomach, and sun sensitivity, so protect your skin from the sun while taking this medication. If you're pregnant, nursing, or under 8 years old, talk to your doctor before using this medicine, as special considerations may apply.

Known Interactions (5)

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Most Reported Side Effects (FAERS)

  • DRUG INEFFECTIVE5,090 reports
  • NAUSEA4,899 reports
  • FATIGUE4,514 reports
  • OFF LABEL USE4,480 reports
  • RASH4,027 reports
  • DIARRHOEA3,944 reports
  • PAIN3,898 reports
  • DYSPNOEA3,879 reports
  • HEADACHE3,863 reports
  • VOMITING3,763 reports

Source: FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Voluntary reports do not establish causation.

Recent Recalls (1)

Source: FDA (openFDA Drug Enforcement). Voluntary and mandated recalls affecting this drug.

Supplement Interactions (2)

These dietary supplements may interact with Doxycycline. Always consult your healthcare provider.

  • moderate
    calcium

    Calcium binds tetracyclines in the gut, reducing antibiotic absorption by up to 50%.

    Separate doses by at least 2 hours.

  • moderate
    iron

    Iron chelates tetracyclines, reducing antibiotic effectiveness.

    Separate doses by at least 2 hours.

Check interactions with Doxycycline:

SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.