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Overview
Doryx is the brand name of an antibiotic used to treat acne in both teenagers and adults. It is a type of tetracycline called doxycycline hyclate; it is time-released and taken in pill form once a day. Side effects are uncommon, although it does have the potential to reduce the effectiveness of other medications.
Function
When acne does not respond to topical therapy, oral antibiotics may be used instead or added to the treatment process. Physicians also commonly prescribe Doryx or other oral antibiotics as beginning therapy for acne. These antibiotics decrease bacterial colonies and also are anti-inflammatory agents. A combination of Doryx and topical retinoids, a form of vitamin A that helps reduce and eliminate acne, is even more effective. Retinoids are a form of vitamin A that helps reduce and eliminate acne. Doryx also has been shown in one study to reduce rosacea.
Identification
The antibiotic in Doryx, doxycycline, is a type of tetracycline invented and developed by Pfizer in the 1960s. It is used to treat many other conditions, diseases and infections. Doryx is produced by Warner Chilcott and is available in tablets of 75 mg as well as 100 mg and 150 mg. Because of the time-release action, the pills do not start working until they reach the small intestine, which reduces gastrointestinal side effects that sometimes occur with doxycycline.
Considerations
People typically must take Doryx for at least two to four weeks before seeing any improvement. A less expensive generic form of doxycycline hyclate is available, but since it is not time-released, it has more potential to cause stomach upset. Not all people have success at reducing acne with Doryx.
Side Effects
Doryx reacts with many drugs and can decrease their effectiveness in some cases, including antacids, birth control pills, blood thinners and vitamins. In addition, iron supplements and milk can decrease the effectiveness of Doryx. People should inform their physicians about any other medications they are taking. Doryx can cause severe sunburn. Other side effects are uncommon and should be reported to a doctor immediately if they occur. These side effects include allergic reactions, fever, rectal or genital itching, pain when swallowing, stomach pain, bruising, weakness, fatigue, diarrhea and nausea.
Warning
Doryx and other doxycycline medications should not be used during tooth development, as they can cause permanent discoloration. People should never use expired Doryx because its chemical formula changes and it can cause kidney damage. Doryx should not be used during pregnancy or breast-feeding.
