GENERIC NAME: DEMECLOCYCLINE - ORAL (dem-eh-klo-SYE-kleen)
BRAND NAME(S): Declomycin
Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Demeclocycline is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. It is also used to treat acne and to prevent "traveler's diarrhea".
OTHER USES: This drug may also be used for special cases of fluid retention (SIADH).
HOW TO USE: This medication works best if taken on an empty stomach one hour before or two hours after meals. Take each dose with a full glass of water (4oz. or 120ml) or more. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this drug. It may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Take this medication 2-3 hours before or after taking any products containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium. Some examples include quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), vitamins/minerals, and antacids. Dairy products (e.g., milk, yogurt), calcium-enriched juice, sucralfate, bismuth subsalicylate, iron, and zinc are also included. These products bind with demeclocycline preventing its full absorption. This medication works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. When using this for an infection, continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a relapse of the infection. If you are using this for fluid retention due to SIADH, take it exactly as directed by your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, headache, dizziness, lightheadedness or vomiting. If these symptoms persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Very unlikely but report promptly: stomach pain, yellowing eyes or skin, vision changes, mental changes, increased urination. This medication may increase sensitivity to sunlight. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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