Description
Generic Name: doxycycline
Drug Class: tetracycline antibiotic
Indications
Oracea is an oral prescription drug used to treat only inflammatory lesions, such as papules and pustules of rosacea, among adult patients. It can help reduce the pimples and bumps on the face but cannot address redness. This is not indicated to treat or prevent infections.
Dosage Forms
This is available in Oracea 40 mg capsules.
Oracea Mechanism of Action
The precise action of this oral medication is unknown. However, this type of medication inhibits protein translation by binding to the 16S rRNA part of the ribosome, which prevents the binding of tRNA and RNA-30S bacterial ribosomal subunit, which is necessary for protein synthesis. Hampering with bacterial replication leads to a bacteriostatic effect.
How to Take Oracea
Before starting to take Oracea, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. Any medications you take must be taken only after you have understood their uses and directions. Consult a physician or pharmacist if you require additional medical advice or information.
Oracea is only meant to be taken by mouth. This is usually prescribed once a day, preferably in the morning. Take this oral medication on an empty stomach, at least an hour before or two hours prior to your first meal. Swallow the capsule entirely and drink a full glass of water right after. Cutting, crushing, or chewing this product is not recommended because it can release the active ingredients all at once.
Make a dosing schedule. This type of drug should be taken 2 to 3 hours prior to or after taking in any products that contain aluminum, iron, calcium, magnesium, bismuth subsalicylate, or zinc. Do not increase or decrease your Oracea dosage. You should also not take this oral drug more frequently than advised.
Oracea Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Headache
-Nausea
-Upset stomach
-Diarrhea
Severe Side Effects:
-Persistent nausea and vomiting
-Painful swallowing
-Tooth discoloration
-Discoloration of the skin, lips, or tongue
-Unusual tiredness
-Hearing changes
-Changes in urine output
-Intracranial hypertension
-C. difficile infection
-Vaginal yeast infection
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Oracea.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and talk to your doctor or health care professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take Oracea if you have a known allergy to doxycycline, tetracycline, or any inactive ingredients the capsule may contain. Always be watchful for any signs of serious allergic reactions, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. If this occurs, stop taking this oral medication and seek emergency medical help immediately.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of esophagus problems, problem swallowing, liver disease, kidney disease, lupus, and stomach surgery. Also, due to possible drug interactions, you should discuss all the prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Doxycycline can decrease the efficacy of live bacterial vaccines, such as typhoid vaccine. You must inform your doctor or any healthcare professional that you are on doxycycline treatment before receiving a vaccination or immunization.
This antibiotic can make you more sensitive to sun exposure. It is necessary to minimize or avoid exposure to the sun. You should also avoid indoor tanning. Wear protective clothing and apply sunblock lotion or cream when going out.
Pregnant moms should avoid this antibiotic because of the harm that it can cause to unborn babies. For breastfeeding moms, it is unknown if this medication can pass into the breastmilk. It is necessary to discuss all the possible risks with a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Oracea prescribed for?
Oracea medication is prescribed to treat a specific type of skin condition known as rosacea. It lessens the pimples and bumps on the face caused by this condition.
How long should you take Oracea?
This oral drug is safe for long-term use. This can be prescribed for 16 weeks or more, depending on the severity of your condition.
Is Oracea effective?
Based on the Oracea before and after results, this medication is effective in treating symptoms of rosacea. However, it is necessary to note that it cannot lessen the redness caused by this skin condition.
Can I take Oracea at night?
Most doctors recommend taking this medication before eating breakfast in the morning. If you must take it at night, administer your dose at least one hour before bedtime to avoid developing ulcers or inflammation of the esophagus.
Does Oracea make you gain weight?
There is no link between this antibiotic and weight gain. There are no reports of patients gaining weight while on this treatment.
Do you need a prescription for Oracea?
This product is a prescription drug. You need to have a valid prescription before purchasing from any pharmacy.
How can I get Oracea cheaper?
You can get the best deals when you order your prescription drugs from Pharma Passport. You may see the list of prices on this page by clicking here.