Demeclocycline

About demeclocycline

Demeclocycline stops bacteria from functioning and so stops numbers from increasing.

Before taking demeclocycline

Before taking demeclocycline make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver and kidney problems.
• If you suffer from systemic lupus erythematosus (a blood disorder) or myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
• If you are taking anticoagulants e.g. warfarin.
• If the medicine is for a child under 12 years of age.

How to take demeclocycline

• Take demeclocycline an hour before food or on an empty stomach.
• Swallow demeclocycline capsules and tablets whole (not crushed or chewed), with plenty of water, while sitting or standing.
• Do not take any indigestion remedies, iron or zinc supplements or drink milk at the same time as taking this medicine. Take them at least two hours before or two hours after a dose of demeclocycline.
• It is important not to lie down for at least thirty minutes after taking demeclocycline capsules, so that the capsule can move as swiftly as possible into the stomach.
• Try to take this medicine at regular intervals, as directed by your doctor, to keep a steady level of demeclocycline in your body.
• Try not to miss any doses. If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Never take two doses at the same time to make up.
• If you are taking demeclocycline to treat acne it is quite normal to continue treatment for several months.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of demeclocycline. If you stop taking this medicine too soon your infection is likely to return and could be more difficult to treat.
• Before having any surgery (including dental surgery) with a general anaesthetic, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking demeclocycline.
• Important: Oral contraceptives may be less effective while you are taking demeclocycline and unplanned pregnancies have occurred. In addition to taking the contraceptive pill, use a barrier method of contraception (e.g. condoms) while you are taking demeclocycline and for at least seven days after your course of demeclocycline has finished. If these seven days run into a 'pill-free' week, start taking the next packet of contraceptives without leaving a break. If you are taking the type of contraceptive pill that is taken every day or if you need any further advice, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Demeclocycline may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight than usual. Try to avoid strong sunlight and use a sunscreen of at least factor 15.

Can demeclocycline cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Other side effects may include tummy pain, headache, problems with eyesight, heartburn, sore or painful tongue or mouth, loss of appetite, dizziness, loss of balance and ringing in the ears.

How to store demeclocycline

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines