ORACEA/APPRILON (Doxycycline)

What is this medication?

ORACEA/APPRILON (Doxycycline)
Antibiotic, Tetracycline Derivative.

Brand Name US: Oracea
Canadian Equivalent: Apprilon

ORACEA/APPRILON (Doxycycline) officially indicated as an antibiotic for various bacterial infections. It is sometimes used off-label for post tendon repair surgery.

How does this medication work? 

Doxycycline inhibits protein synthesis by binding with the 30S and possibly the 50S ribosomal subunit(s) of susceptible bacteria; may also cause alterations in the cytoplasmic membrane.  Doxycycline also inhibits matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) activity which is elevated after a tendon tear/rupture.  Doxycycline has been shown to accelerate tendon repair and improve the biomechanical properties of tendon, especially when paired with surgical management.

How should I take this medication? 

Post Tendon Repair Surgery
Oral: Take as directed by medical doctor; never exceed the maximum recommended daily dose.

How Do You Use Doxycycline: Take doxycycline with food to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms.  Take with a full glass of water and do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation and ulceration.

Is Doxycycline Safe to Use During Pregnancy: Doxycycline is unlikely to cause any significant teratogenic risk, but the available date is insufficient to say that there is no risk.   However, tetracyclines as a class should generally be considered a second-line antibiotic in pregnant women and their use should be avoided.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Can cause esophagitis and ulcerations

Discontinue use in patients who experience a hypersensitivity syndrome, renal impairment, intracranial hypertension

Can cause photosensitivity and tissue hyperpigmentation

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light.  Keep the container tightly closed. Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication? 

Well tolerated, most side effects are transient and mild to moderate in nature. The most common side effects include:

1-10%

Cardiovascular: Hypertension (3%)

Central nervous system: Anxiety (2%), pain (2%)

Endocrine & Metabolic: Increased lactate dehydrogenase (2%), increased serum glucose (1%)

Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea (5%), upper abdominal pain (2%), abdominal distention (1%), abdominal pain (1%), xerostomia (1%)

Hepatic: Increased serum aspartate aminotransferase (2%)

Infection: Fungal infection (2%), influenza (2%)

Neuromuscular & skeletal: Back pain (1%)

Respiratory: Nasopharyngitis (5%), sinusitis (3%), nasal congestion (2%), sinus headache (1%)