Doxycycline - Cutting down on Doxycycline side effects
Similar to any of the tetracycline antibiotics, Doxycycline side effects can damage the kidneys severely if the medication goes past its expiration date. It is a common medication used to fight infections, especially those of the respiratory tract, typhus, anthrax, cholera and syphilis; even sufferers from acne stay grateful to it. This special group of tetracycline-derived antibiotic is also the only remedy for the infamous Colorado tick fever and is effective for veterinary treatment as well.
Among the most common (and funny) side effects of doxycycline is it will not work at all if taken with aluminum-, calcium-, iron- or magnesium-based medicaments or supplements, since these minerals bind the compound resulting in non-absorption of the compound by the intestine. But dangerous is its effect in enhancing the action of the anticoagulant Warfarin; you won’t like your blood running thinner than usual. Profuse bleeding is inevitable in that case; make sure you do not engage in extreme sports or equivalent dangerous activities when under this medication.
Now, to the pregnant and nursing mothers. Tetracycline antibiotics are infamous for altering certain genes (those responsible for bone growth and teething) and doxycyclines, being tetracycline derivatives, induce similar results both in fetus and newborns – in fact, in children under eight years of age. You won’t like your child sporting colored teeth, would you? Of course, if there’s no other choice, it is the only option that remains; therefore, to cut off the chances for Doxycycline side effects in infants, you need to discontinue from breast feeding at least for a fortnight.
However, for adults, doxycycline is a well-tolerated medication and doesn’t normally go beyond diarrhea, loose stools, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms show up since doxycycline doesn’t discriminate between harmful and beneficial bacteria and disrupts the probiotics (beneficial bacterium) found in the intestinal tract of healthy mammals.
Additionally, there might be exaggerated sunburn, so stay away from the beach (use an umbrella even when out in the sun for a short period) but it is always better if you can avoid sunlight completely. Side effects of doxycycline, both in adults and infants are easy to ward off with a little caution; so check the pack and remember the words above before you go for the purchase. It is only through carelessness that serious Doxycycline side effects might occur; in that case, discontinue and seek professional medical advice for an alternative medication.
