Doxycycline (Vibramycin)

 Common Drug Name Doxycycline

Common Brand Names Doxirobe (oral gel veterinary form) Vibramycin , Monodex (human form) Generic products are available.

Storage Unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer, store in tightly closed container at room temperature (60-86°F), protected from light, heat, and moisture (not in the bathroom). Once the oral suspension is reconstituted (the powder is mixed with water), store at room temperature and use within 14 days.

Uses Dogs: Doxycycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic commonly used for the treatment of bacterial infections, leptospirosis, toxoplasmosis, and many diseases carried by ticks including Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and salmon poisoning. Doxirobe, an oral gel, can be applied to pockets between the gums and teeth to fight bacteria causing dental disease. Cats: Doxycycline is used for the treatment of bacterial infections, haemobartonellosis, ehrlichiosis, and toxoplasmosis. Rabbits, Chinchillas, Mice, Rats, Gerbils, Hamsters, and Guinea Pigs: Used for the treatment of bacterial and mycoplasma infections. Birds: Used for the treatment of infections, including psittacosis. Reptiles: Used for the treatment of bacterial and mycoplasma infections.

]Dose and Administration Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. Use all of the medication prescribed. If your pet does not receive the entire course of treatment, the infection may recur or worsen. Oral forms may be given with food to decrease side effects. CAUTION in CATS: If using a tablet or capsule form, you must also give a teaspoon of water after administering the pill, or the medication may cause damage to the esophagus. Alternatively, offer your cat water flavored with tuna water or other liquid your cat likes. You may also get a liquid form of doxycycline for cats. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once. This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

Possible Side Effects Possible side effects include nausea and vomiting. Contact your veterinarian if you observe any of these effects in your pet. May cause photosensitivity, with pustules or blisters on skin exposed to the sun. Long-term therapy may result in the growth of unwanted bacteria or fungi. May stain the teeth in immature animals, but other tetracyclines more apt to do this. If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Precautions Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it or other tetracyclines. Do not give during the first half of pregnancy. Can slow the growth, alter the skeleton, and yellow the teeth of unborn animals. Give only during the second half of pregnancy if benefits outweigh the risks. Consult with your veterinarian regarding the physical examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during treatment with doxycycline.

Drug, Food, and Test Interactions Consult your veterinarian before using doxycycline with vitamins and supplements, oral antacids, minerals (especially iron), Pepto-Bismol, or Kaopectate digoxin, theophylline (bronchial dilator), warfarin and insulin, since interactions may occur. May cause false urine glucose results.

Signs of Toxicity/Overdose May see loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.

** This information may not cover all possible uses, directions, side effects, precautions, allergic reactions, drug interactions, or withdrawal times.  Always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.

If you have questions about this medication, please call our Pharmacy at (877) 815-6337 for a consultation