Medications and Drugs

Cosmetic Dentistry Slideshow

GENERIC NAME: DOXYCYCLINE 20MG - ORAL (dox-ee-SYE-kleen)

BRAND NAME(S): Periostat

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used, in addition to dental procedures, to treat inflammation of the gums (periodontitis). In the dosage used, this drug helps allow healing of gum tissue damage.

HOW TO USE: Take this product by mouth, generally twice daily, one hour before morning and evening meals or as directed. Take each dose with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this product. Take this medication 2-3 hours before or after taking any medications containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium. Some examples include quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (e.g. chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), vitamins/minerals, and antacids. Sucralfate, bismuth subsalicylate, iron, and zinc are also included. These medications bind with doxycycline preventing its full absorption.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea or diarrhea may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Unlikely but report promptly: "sunburn" (sun sensitivity). Very unlikely but report promptly: dark urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, persistent sore throat or fever, unusual bleeding or bruising, unusual fatigue, white patches in the mouth, unusual vaginal discharge/itching. 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.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your dentist/doctor your medical history, including: any allergies, yeast infections of the mouth (oral candidiasis), kidney or liver problems, esophagus problems/trouble swallowing (e.g., hiatal hernia or reflux/heartburn). Doxycycline may make you more prone to sunburn. Wear protective clothing and a sunscreen if needed. Consult your pharmacist. Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods may result in an infection (e.g., oral, bladder, or vaginal yeast infection), though this is unlikely to occur. This drug should not be used in children up to 8 years of age because its use may permanently discolor their teeth or cause other problems. Caution is advised in older children also. This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast- feeding.