Demeclocycline is used for the treatment of intestinal bacterial infections, caused by Amoebae and preferably in combination with other drugs.
What is Demeclocycline?
Demeclocycline is a tetracycline. It works by interfering protein synthesis. That way, it slows down the bacteria growth and it facilitates the work of the immune system.
How should Demeclocycline be taken?
Demeclocycline is administered orally in the form of tablets, which should be taken on an empty stomach (at least one hour before or two hours after a meal). It is recommended to drink enough water to prevent throat irritation.
Side effects associated with Demeclocycline
Long-term or repeated intake of Demeclocycline can cause a second infection. Moreover, taking this antibiotic may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight and increase the blood sugar level.
Among the other possible adverse effects are included:
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Throat irritation
- Vomiting
You should immediately contact a doctor if taking Demeclocycline triggers any of the following symptoms:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itchy skin
- Difficult breathing
- Chest tightness
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
- Blood in the stool
- Blurred view or other vision problems
- Dark urine
- Decreased or increased urination
- Fever, chills or sore throat
- Increased thirst
- Muscle weakness
- Skin redness, swelling, blistering or peeling
- Strong diarrhea
- Strong or persistent headaches
- Strong or persistent throat irritation
- Severe skin reaction to the sun
- Pain or stomach cramps
- Bruising or bleeding
- Unusual tiredness
- Vaginal discharge or irritation
- Weakness
- Jaundice
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Demeclocycline
Demeclocycline is contraindicated in case of taking acitretin, isotretinoin or penicillins. Therefore, Demeclocycline should not be taken two hours before and after consuming antacids containing aluminum, calcium or magnesium, products containing bismuth, iron, alkalizing urine, zinc or multivitamins with minerals.
The treatment may compromise the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery, especially if Demeclocycline is taken together with alcohol or other drugs. It may also reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, alter results of some laboratory tests and irritate the throat. In addition, it is not recommended to lie down immediately after taking the drug.
Moreover, before starting the treatment it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its ingredients, other drugs (in particular other tetracyclines) or food
- You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, in particular acitretin, anticoagulants, digoxin, isotretinoin, methotrexate, methoxyflurane, penicillins or hormonal contraceptives
- You suffer (or have suffered) from kidney, liver or diabetes disorders
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
