Doxycycline For Dental Use (Systemic)

Brand Names : Periostat

Precautions While Using This Medicine

Do not take antacids or bismuth subsalicylate within 1 to 2 hours of taking doxycycline. In addition, do not take iron-containing medicines (including vitamin preparations containing iron) within 2 to 3 hours of taking doxycycline. To do so may keep doxycycline from working properly.

Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) may not work properly if you take them while you are taking tetracyclines. Unplanned pregnancies may occur. You should use a different or additional means of birth control while you are taking doxycycline. If you have any questions about this, check with your doctor.

Before having surgery (including dental surgery) with a general anesthetic, tell the medical doctor or dentist in charge that you are taking doxycycline.

Some people who take tetracyclines may become more sensitive to sunlight than they are normally. Exposure to sunlight, even for brief periods of time, may cause severe sunburn; skin rash, redness, itching, or discoloration; or vision changes. When you begin taking this medicine:

• Stay out of direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., if possible.
• Wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses.
• Apply a sun block product that has a skin protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Some patients may require a product with a higher SPF number, especially if they have a fair complexion. If you have any questions about this, check with your health care professional.
• Do not use a sunlamp or tanning bed or booth.