Vibramycin
® (
doxycycline) is a prescription antibiotic. It is used to treat and prevent a number of different infections. Notably, some of the approved uses of Vibramycin include treating severe acne, treating and preventing
anthrax, and preventing
malaria.
Currently, this medication is made by Pfizer, Inc.
Vibramycin is part of a class of drugs called
tetracyclines. It decreases bacteria's ability to make protein, which bacteria need to live. This activity does not directly kill the bacteria, but it does inhibit their growth and multiplication, which gives the immune system a chance to fight the infection.
When and How Do I Take It?
Some considerations for people taking this drug include the following:
- The medication comes in capsule and oral suspension forms. It is usually taken once or twice a day.
- Vibramycin can be taken with or without food. Although the medication may work slightly better on an empty stomach, there is probably not enough of a difference to be of concern. If the medication bothers your stomach, make sure to take it with food.
- It is important to take the capsules with plenty of water (or other fluids) while in an upright position, in order to prevent the medication from irritating the throat. Do not lie down immediately after taking this medication.
- Make sure to shake Vibramycin oral suspension well before each dose.
- It does not matter what time of day you take this medication. However, it should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level of the medication in your system.
- For the drug to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. It will not work adequately if you stop taking it too soon.
Dosing Information for Vibramycin
The dosage that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The condition being treated
- Your weight (for children)
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you are currently taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Vibramycin
As with any medicine, side effects are possible. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor, meaning that they require no treatment or are easily treated by your healthcare provider.
Possible side effects of this drug include, but are not limited to:
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Vibramycin?
You should talk to your healthcare provider prior to taking this drug if you have:
- Liver disease or liver failure
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Frequent yeast infections
- Any other allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Vibramycin?
People who take too much of this medication may have overdose symptoms that could include:
If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek immediate medical attention
(see Doxycycline Overdose).
Vibramycin should be stored at room temperature and kept protected from light and moisture. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your dosage as scheduled, take the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
This medication comes in the following strengths and forms:
- Vibramycin Hyclate 50 mg capsules
- Vibramycin Hyclate 100 mg capsules
- Vibramycin Calcium 50 mg per 5 mL syrup oral suspension
- Vibramycin Monohydrate 25 mg per 5 mL for oral suspension (which comes in powder form and must be mixed by your pharmacist).
