Avidoxy Dk (doxycycline monohydrate/salicylic acid/octinoxate/zinc oxide)

Dosage of doxycycline hyclate and doxycycline monohydrate is expressed in terms of doxycycline.

Because of differing bioavailability, doxycycline hyclate delayed-release tablets (Doryx(R), Doryx(R) MPC) are not substitutable on a mg-per-mg basis with other oral doxycycline preparations; Doryx(R) and Doryx(R) MPC also are not substitutable for one another on a mg-per-mg basis. When switching from Doryx(R) to Doryx(R) MPC, Doryx(R) 50 mg can be replaced by Doryx(R) MPC 60 mg, and Doryx(R) 100 mg can be replaced by Doryx(R) MPC 120 mg.

Doxycycline hyclate and doxycycline monohydrate are administered orally.

When oral therapy is not feasible, doxycycline hyclate may be administered by slow IV infusion; however, patients should transition to oral therapy as soon as possible. Prolonged IV administration of doxycycline may result in thrombophlebitis.

Doxycycline also has been administered by intrapleural infusion+.

No dosing information is available for this tab.

No dosing information is available for this tab.

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

Antibiotics/Fecal Microbiota

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fecal microbiota is a suspension of live bacteria, which may be compromised by concurrent use of antibiotics.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of fecal microbiota.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Antibiotics should not be used concurrently with fecal microbiota. Antibacterial treatment should be completed for 24 to 72 hours before initiating treatment with fecal microbiota. Do not use antibiotics for up to 8 weeks after fecal microbiota.(1)

DISCUSSION: Antibiotics may compromise the effectiveness of fecal microbiota.

Antibiotics/Fecal Microbiota Spores

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fecal microbiota spores is a suspension of live bacterial spores, which may be compromised by concurrent use of antibiotics.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Antibiotics may decrease the effectiveness of fecal microbiota spores.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Antibiotics should not be used concurrently with fecal microbiota spores. Antibacterial treatment should be completed for 2 to 4 days before initiating treatment with fecal microbiota spores.(1)

DISCUSSION: Antibiotics may compromise the effectiveness of fecal microbiota spores.

Antimicrobials/Live Typhoid Vaccine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The antimicrobial may be active against the organism in the live-vaccine. Antimicrobial therapy may prevent the vaccine organism from replicating enough to trigger an immune response.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Vaccination may be ineffective.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Do not give oral typhoid vaccine until 72 hours after the last dose of antimicrobial. If possible, to optimize vaccine effectiveness, do not start antibacterial drugs for 72 hours after the last dose of oral typhoid vaccine. A longer interval should be considered for long-acting antimicrobials, such as azithromycin.(3)

DISCUSSION: Because antimicrobial therapy may prevent sufficient vaccine-organism replication to generate an immune response, the manufacturer of live-attenuated typhoid vaccine and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) state that the vaccine should not be administered to patients receiving antimicrobial therapy.(1-3)

Oral Tetracyclines/Strontium Ranelate

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strontium may form a complex with oral tetracyclines, preventing their absorption.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of strontium with oral tetracyclines may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of the tetracycline.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK(1) and US(2) manufacturers of strontium states that strontium therapy should be suspended during the treatment with an oral tetracycline.

DISCUSSION: Divalent cations such as strontium can form complexes with oral tetracyclines.(1,2)

Selected Antibiotics/Cholera Vaccine Live

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Antibiotics with activity against Vibrio cholerae may attenuate the immunization response to the live cholera vaccine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent antibiotic use may make the cholera vaccine ineffective.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of live cholera vaccine states that it should not be administered to patients who have received antibiotics within 14 days prior to vaccination.(1) If antimalarial prophylaxis with chloroquine is required, administer the live cholera vaccine at least 10 days before beginning chloroquine.(1) Antibiotics linked to this monograph are: macrolides, quinolones, tetracyclines, ampicillin, cefprozil, chloramphenicol, furazolidone, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, and sulfametrole-trimethoprim.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: Antibiotics with activity against Vibrio cholerae may attenuate the immunization response to the live cholera vaccine, rendering the vaccine ineffective.

Selected Photosensitizers/Tretinoin-Mequinol

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tretinoin, anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides are all known photosensitizers.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tretinoin in patients taking anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides may increase the risk of phototoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer states that tretinoin-mequinol should not be administered to patients receiving photosensitizers including anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides.(1)

DISCUSSION: Because of the risk of increased photosensitivity, the US manufacturer states that tretinoin-mequinol should not be administered to patients receiving photosensitizers including anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), methotrexate, phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides.(1)

Tetracyclines/Selected Retinoids (Systemic)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Both systemic tetracyclines(1-4,14) and systemic retinoids(5-14) have been independently associated with medication-induced intracranial hypertension.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of oral retinoids(5-12) with tetracyclines has been associated with pseudotumor cerebri (benign intracranial hypertension). Early signs of pseudotumor cerebri include papilledema (inflammation of the optic nerve), headache, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances such as blurred vision, double vision, and loss of vision.(15)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Women of childbearing age who are overweight or have a previous history of intracranial hypertension are at a greater risk of developing intracranial hypertension.(15)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK(5) and US(6) manufacturers of acitretin state state that concurrent use with tetracyclines is contraindicated. The UK manufacturer of isotretinoin states that concurrent use with tetracyclines is contraindicated.(7) The US manufacturer of isotretinoin states that the concurrent use of tetracyclines should be avoided.(8) The US manufacturer of minocycline states that the administration of isotretinoin should be avoided shortly before, during and shortly after minocycline therapy.(2) The UK manufacturers of oral tretinoin and alitretinoin states that concurrent use with tetracyclines is contraindicated.(9,11) The Canadian manufacturer of palovarotene states that coadministration of tetracycline derivatives should be avoided.(12) Patients who present with symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri should be screened for papilledema. If papilledema is present, they should discontinue the drug and be referred to a neurologist for further treatment.(5-13)

DISCUSSION: The concurrent use of isotretinoin and tetracyclines has been associated with pseudotumor cerebri.(5-13) A review of ocular side effects from the National Registry of Drug-Induced Ocular Side Effects, the World Health Organization, the Food and Drug Administration, and medical journals from 1979 to 2003 found 6 patients who developed intracranial hypertension while taking concurrent minocycline or tetracycline with tretinoin, acitretin, or etretinate.(13)

Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

Aluminum & Magnesium Antacids;Polyvalent Cations/Raltegravir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum and/or magnesium containing antacids may alter raltegravir absorption by altering gastric pH. Magnesium antacids and supplements containing polyvalent cations may bind to raltegravir in the GI tract, preventing its absorption.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Aluminum and/or magnesium containing antacids and supplements containing polyvalent cations may reduce levels and clinical effectiveness of raltegravir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of any formulation of raltegravir and aluminum and/or magnesium antacids is not recommended. Instruct patients not to use aluminum and/or magnesium containing antacids. Calcium carbonate may be used in place of aluminum and/or magnesium containing antacids in patients receiving raltegravir twice daily. Calcium carbonate is not recommended for patients receiving once daily raltegravir (1,200 mg daily).(1,2) The US HIV treatment guidelines state that if coadministration of other medications that contain polyvalent cations (e.g., Mg, Al, Fe, Ca, Zn, sucralfate) is necessary, administer raltegravir at least 2 hours before or at least 6 hours after polyvalent cations. Monitor for virologic response.(2)

DISCUSSION: Simultaneous administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) with raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 44%, 49%, and 63%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 2 hours before raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 51%, 51%, and 56%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 2 hours after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 22%, 30%, and 57%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 4 hours before after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 22%, 19%, and 60%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 4 hours after after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 30%, 32%, and 62%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 6 hours before after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 10%, 13%, and 50%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 6 hours after after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 10%, 11%, and 49%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 12 hours after after raltegravir (1200 mg single dose) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 14%, 14%, and 58%, respectively.(1,3) Data from in vitro(3) and in vivo simulations(5) suggest that magnesium's effect on raltegravir may involve chelation as well as changes in pH.

Selected Photosensitizers/Aminolevulinic Acid

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aminolevulinic acid, anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides are all known photosensitizers.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of aminolevulinic acid in patients taking anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides may increase the risk of phototoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer states that aminolevulinic acid should be avoided in patients receiving photosensitizers including anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides for 24 hours before and after administration of aminolevulinic acid.(1)

DISCUSSION: Because of the risk of increased photosensitivity, the US manufacturer states that aminolevulinic acid should be avoided in patients receiving photosensitizers including anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides for 24 hours before and after administration of aminolevulinic acid.(1)

Selected Photosensitizers/Methoxsalen

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Methoxsalen causes photosensitivity due to residual drug which is present in all parts of the skin from photopheresis. Anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides are other known photosensitizers.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of methoxsalen in patients taking anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides may increase the risk of phototoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of methoxsalen states that concurrent use of methoxsalen with anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: All patients who have received methoxsalen become photosensitive. It is unknown what the risk of photosensitivity reactions is when methoxsalen is used concurrently with other photosensitizing agents.(1)

Selected Photosensitizers/Porfimer

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Porfimer causes photosensitivity due to residual drug which is present in all parts of the skin. Anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides are other known photosensitizers.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of porfimer in patients taking anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides may increase the risk of phototoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with any hepatic impairment and patients with severe renal impairment have reduced drug elimination and may remain photosensitive for 90 days or longer.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of porfimer states that concurrent use of porfimer with photosensitizers including anthralin, coal tar and derivatives, fluoroquinolones, griseofulvin, organic staining dyes (such as methylene blue, rose bengal, or toluidine blue), phenothiazines, selected NSAIDs (such as diclofenac, ketoprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, and tiaprofenic acid), methotrexate, St. John's wort, sulfonamides, sulfonylureas, tetracyclines, and thiazides should be avoided.(1) Since the photosensitive effect of porfimer may persist for at least 30 days (and for 90 days in some patients), it would be prudent to avoid other photosensitizing agents for at least 30 days after administration of porfimer.

DISCUSSION: All patients who have received porfimer become photosensitive. It is unknown what the risk of photosensitivity reactions is when porfimer is used concurrently with other photosensitizing agents. When porfimer was used in clinical trials, photosensitivity reactions occurred in about 20% of cancer patients and in 69% of high-grade dysplasia in Barretts esophagus patients. Most of the reactions were mild to moderate erythema, but they also included swelling, pruritus, burning sensation, feeling hot, or blisters. The majority of reactions occurred within 90 days of porfimer administration.(1)

Tetracyclines/Methoxyflurane

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Unknown. However, combined renal toxicity appears to be a factor.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Nephrotoxicity may occur.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When possible use alternative therapy.

DISCUSSION: Renal toxicity and death have been reported in patients receiving methoxyflurane and tetracycline. Since both drugs have been associated with nephrotoxicity, it is difficult to determine whether the effects are due to the drug combination or either drug alone. Additional studies are needed to clarify this potential interaction.

Tetracyclines/Topical Tretinoin (Photodamage)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of topical tretinoin with tetracyclines may increase the risk of phototoxicity(1) in some patients.(2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients using topical tretinoin for the treatment of photodamage may be predisposed to photosensitivity.(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of topical tretinoin and tetracycline is standard practice in the treatment of acne.(3) However, patients taking tetracyclines should not use topical tretinoin (e.g Renova) for the treatment of photodamage.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: The concurrent use of topical tretinoin and tetracyclines may result in an increased risk of phototoxicity.(1,2)

Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

Aluminum, Iron, Zinc/Deferiprone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Deferiprone chelates polyvalent cations such as aluminum, iron, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Deferiprone chelation with oral aluminum, iron or zinc containing products in the gastrointestinal tract may decrease the amount of free deferiprone available for systemic iron chelation. Zinc supplements prescribed to counteract deferiprone-induced zinc deficiency may not be effective if taken near time of deferiprone administration.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer recommends at least a four hour interval between deferiprone dose and administration of aluminum, iron or zinc containing medications or supplements.(1) Avoid use of iron-containing vitamins or nutritional supplements in patients who require chelation therapy for iron overload.

DISCUSSION: The US manufacturer has not studied this interaction. The recommendation to separate deferiprone and polyvalent cation doses by at least four hours is based upon the deferiprone mechanism of action.(1)

Antacids And Selected Minerals/Oral Iron Supplements

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Some antacids may bind to iron, preventing its absorption. Alterations in gastric pH by antacids may also play a role. Iron may bind to other minerals such as calcium, manganese, tin, and zinc in the GI tract.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of an antacid or minerals may decrease the absorption of orally administered iron.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The interaction with some combinations may be affected by the presence or absence of food.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Iron supplements should not be taken within 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids, calcium, manganese, or zinc.(1) Some vitamin preparations may contain sufficient quantities of calcium and/or magnesium salts with antacid properties to interact as well.

DISCUSSION: Magnesium hydroxide has been shown to inhibit the absorption of elemental iron,(2) although other studies have shown conflicting results.(3,4) Sodium bicarbonate has been shown to decrease the absorption of iron by 50%.(3) In a study in 61 healthy subjects, calcium citrate, calcium carbonate, and calcium phosphate inhibited iron absorption when taken with food. However, in the fasted state, calcium carbonate had no effect on iron absorption. In the fasted state, calcium citrate and calcium phosphate decreased iron absorption by 49% and 62%, respectively,(6) In a study in 23 healthy subjects, calcium acetate and calcium carbonate decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) of elemental iron (65 mg) by 27% and 19%, respectively.(7) In a study, manganese decreased iron absorption. A ratio of 5:1 of zinc:iron decreased iron absorption by 56%.(8) In a study, inorganic iron decreased zinc absorption.(9) In another study, ferrous sulfate decreased the absorption of zinc sulfate in a concentration dependent manner; however, heme chloride had no effect on zinc sulfate.(10) In a study in premature infants, administration of liquid zinc and iron supplements between feedings decreased iron uptake; however, no effect was seen when the supplements were mixed with feedings.(11) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that could be considered for classification as "non-interruptive" in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Di-; Trivalent Cations/Chloroquine; Hydroxychloroquine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Di- and trivalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, lanthanum, and magnesium may adsorb chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine; preventing their absorption.(1-5) The adsorption may also limit the effectiveness of the di- or trivalent cation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of di- or trivalent cations may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine(2-5) and decreased effectiveness of the di- or trivalent cation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Instruct patients to separate the administration times of these medicines by 2 to 4 hours.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: Adsorption of chloroquine by magnesium trisilicate was found to decrease hydrochloric acid uptake and decrease the amount of magnesium released in an acidic environment.(1) In a study, calcium carbonate, kaolin, and magnesium trisilicate were found to decrease the absorption of chloroquine by 52.8%, 46.5%, and 31.3%, respectively.(3) Magnesium trisilicate and magnesium oxide have been shown to decrease the release of chloroquine from tablets and to adsorb chloroquine after its release.(4) In a study in 6 subjects, magnesium trisilicate and kaolin decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) of chloroquine by 18.2% and 28.6%, respectively.(5)

Doxycycline/Strong Cyp3a4 Inducers

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: CYP3A4 inducers may induce the metabolism of doxycyline.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of an inducer of CYP3A4 may result in decreased antimicrobial activity of doxycycline.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If both drugs are administered, monitor the response to doxycycline. Adjust the dose of the drug or consider administration of a non-interacting tetracycline analogue (e.g. tetracycline) if necessary.

DISCUSSION: The effects of the interaction develop over approximately one to two weeks after starting the inducer and reverse over a period of several weeks after stopping the inducer. The elimination of demeclocycline, methacycline, oxytetracycline and tetracycline are not expected to be altered by CYP3A4 inducers as these tetracyclines are primarily excreted by the kidneys. Serum doxycycline concentrations may increase when the inducer is stopped. In a study, the half-life of doxycycline in 7 patients on long-term phenytoin therapy, 5 patients on long-term carbamazepine therapy, 4 patients on long-term combination phenytoin and carbamazepine therapy, and 9 control subjects was 7.2 hours, 8.4 hours, 7.4 hours, and 15.1 hours, respectively.(1) In a study, the half-life of doxycycline was significantly reduced in patients receiving barbiturate therapy.(2) In a study that compared healthy-controls with patients on long-term antiepileptic therapy, the half-life of doxycyline was significantly decreased in patients receiving barbiturates, phenytoin, or carbamazepine. The half-lives of chlortetracycline, demethylchlortetracycline, methacycline, oxytetracycline, and tetracycline were unaffected.(3) In a study in 7 patients, the half-life of doxycycline (200 mg/day) decreased from 17.9 hours to 9.2 hours following the addition of rifampin (10 mg/kg/day) to therapy.(4) CYP3A4 inducers linked to this monograph include: apalutamide, barbiturates, carbamazepine, encorafenib, enzalutamide, fosphenytoin, ivosidenib, lumacaftor, mitotane, phenytoin, primidone, rifamycins, and St. John's Wort.

Polyvalent Cations And Phosphate Binders/Vadadustat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Vadadustat may form a chelate with iron supplements, phosphate binders, and other medicinal products whose primary component consists of polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of vadadustat and polyvalent cations and phosphate binders decreases the exposure and effectiveness of vadadustat.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of vadadustat states that it should be administered at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after any medications or products whose primary component consists of iron, phosphate binders and polyvalent cations.(1)

DISCUSSION: Two studies evaluating the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of a single oral dose of vadadustat coadministered with a phosphate binder or iron supplement were conducted in healthy adult participants. Vadadustat exposure was reduced by coadministration with sevelamer carbonate, calcium acetate, ferric citrate, and ferrous sulfate. Geometric least squares mean ratios for area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) were reduced 37% to 55% by phosphate binders and 46% by ferrous sulfate. However, when vadadustat was administered 1 hour before phosphate binders, 90% confidence intervals for vadadustat exposure were within the no-effect boundaries of +50% to -33%, indicating that drug-drug interactions can be reduced by administering vadadustat 1 hour before phosphate binders.(2)

Polyvalent Cations/Baloxavir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc may form chelation compounds with baloxavir.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc may result in decreased levels of and clinical effects from baloxavir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent administration of baloxavir with cation-containing products.(1)

DISCUSSION: A significant decrease in baloxavir exposure was observed when baloxavir was coadministered with calcium, aluminum, magnesium, or iron in monkeys. No studies have been conducted in humans.(1)

Polyvalent Cations/Cabotegravir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cabotegravir chelates polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of cabotegravir and polyvalent cations may decrease the absorption and clinical effects of cabotegravir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of cabotegravir states that it should be administered at least 4 hours before or 2 hours after any medications or products containing polyvalent cations such as antacids or mineral supplements.(1)

DISCUSSION: Clinical studies have not been conducted. Prescribing information states cabotegravir levels may be decreased when coadministered with antacids containing polyvalent cations (examples include aluminum or magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate) suggesting cabotegravir is susceptible to chelation.(1)

Polyvalent Cations/Eltrombopag

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Eltrombopag chelates polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of eltrombopag and polyvalent cations may decrease the absorption and clinical effects of eltrombopag.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of eltrombopag states that it should be administered at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after any medications or products containing polyvalent cations such as antacids or mineral supplements.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a crossover study in 25 healthy subjects, administration of eltrombopag with an antacid (1524 mg aluminum hydroxide/1425 mg magnesium carbonate/sodium alginate) decreased eltrombopag levels by 70%.(1,2)

Polyvalent Cations/Penicillamine, Oral

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Penicillamine chelates with polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc in the GI tract reducing the absorption of the penicillamine.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Reduced (to 30% of fasting) bioavailability of penicillamine with decreased pharmacologic response.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In order to assure systemic absorption and maximal effectiveness from penicillamine, counsel patient to separate penicillamine by at least 1 hour before or 1 hours after any medications or products containing polyvalent cations such as antacids or mineral supplements. Monitor clinical status for decreased effectiveness and adjust the penicillamine dose if necessary.

DISCUSSION: Clinical studies with polyvalent cations have not been conducted. Multivitamins with low doses of cations including iron and zinc may decrease penicillamine absorption so insure patient is aware of the risks.

Polyvalent Cations/Roxadustat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Roxadustat chelates polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of roxadustat and polyvalent cations may decrease the absorption and clinical effects of roxadustat.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of roxadustat states that it should be administered at least 1 hour before or 1 hour after any medications or products containing polyvalent cations such as antacids or mineral supplements.(1)

DISCUSSION: Clinical studies with polyvalent cations have not been conducted. In a study in health subjects, concurrent use of roxadustat with sevelamer carbonate or calcium acetate decreased roxadustat area-under-curve (AUC) by 67% and 46% and concentration maximum (Cmax) by 66% and 52%, respectively.(1)

Polyvalent Cations; Lanthanum; Sucralfate/Bictegravir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Polyvalent cations, lanthanum, and sucralfate may bind to bictegravir in the GI tract, preventing its absorption.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Polyvalent cations, lanthanum and sucralfate may reduce levels and clinical effectiveness of bictegravir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Bictegravir must be taken 2 hours before or 6 hours after polyvalent cations, lanthanum or sucralfate. Medicines containing calcium can be taken together with bictegravir if taken with food.(1) Some vitamin preparations may contain sufficient quantities of polyvalent cations to interact as well.

DISCUSSION: Simultaneous administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) in a fasted state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 80% and 79%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 2 hours after bictegravir (50 mg single dose) in a fasted state decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 7% and 13%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 2 hours before bictegravir (50 mg single dose) in a fasted state decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 58% and 52%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) in a fed state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 49% and 47%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of calcium carbonate (1200 mg single dose) in a fasted state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 42% and 33%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of calcium carbonate (1200 mg single dose) in a fed state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax by 10% and increased AUC 3%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of ferrous fumarate (324 mg single dose) in a fasted state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 71% and 63%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of ferrous fumarate (324 mg single dose) in a fed state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 25% and 16%, respectively.(1)

Sel Oral Cations; Antacids; H2 Antag/Dolutegravir-Rilpivirin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, sucralfate, and zinc may form chelation compounds with dolutegravir.(1) Rilpivirine requires an acidic medium for absorption. Antacid or H2 antagonist induced decrease in gastric pH may result in decrease in rilpivirine absorption.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration or administration of products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and/or sucralfate close to the administration time of dolutegravir may result in decreased absorption and clinical effectiveness of dolutegravir.(1) Simultaneous administration of an antacid or a H2 antagonist may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of rilpivirine, as well as the development of resistance.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid concurrent therapy with dolutegravir-rilpivirine and cation-containing products. If it is necessary to use these agents concurrently, dolutegravir-rilpivirine should be administered 4 hours before or 6 hours after taking these medications.(1) Alternatively, dolutegravir-rilpivirine and supplements containing calcium or iron can be taken together with food.(1) In patients maintained on dolutegravir-rilpivirine, administer dolutegravir-rilpivirine at least 4 hours before or 6 hours after antacids .(1) In patients maintained on dolutegravir-rilpivirine, administer dolutegravir-rilpivirine at least 4 hours before or 12 hours after H2 antagonists.(1) Concurrent use of proton pump inhibitors will dolutegravir-rilpivirine is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of an antacid (Maalox - aluminum and magnesium hydroxide) simultaneously with dolutegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) of dolutegravir by 72%, 74%, and 74%, respectively.(1) In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of an antacid (Maalox - aluminum and magnesium hydroxide) 2 hours after dolutegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased dolutegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 18%, 26%, and 30%, respectively.(1) In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of a multiple vitamin (One-A-Day) simultaneously with dolutegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased dolutegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 35%, 33%, and 32%, respectively.(1) In a study in 16 subjects, omeprazole (20 mg daily) decreased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of rilpivirine (150 mg daily) by 40%, 40%, and 33%, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of omeprazole decreased by 14% and 14%, respectively.(1) In a study in 24 subjects, famotidine (40 mg single dose) administered 12 hours before a single dose of rilpivirine (150 mg) had no significant effect on rilpivirine Cmax or AUC.(1) In a study in 23 subjects, famotidine (40 mg single dose) administered 2 hours before a single dose of rilpivirine (150 mg) decreased the rilpivirine Cmax and AUC by 85% and 76%, respectively.(1) In a study in 24 subjects, famotidine (40 mg single dose) administered 4 hours before a single dose of rilpivirine (150 mg) increased the rilpivirine Cmax and AUC by 21% and 13%, respectively.(1)

Selected Minerals, Oral/Trientine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Mineral supplements may bind to trientine and block its absorption.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The levels and clinical effects of trientine may be decreased.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of trientine states that mineral supplements should not be given with trientine. If concomitant therapy is necessary, take trientine on an empty stomach and separate administration at least one hour apart from any other drug. Monitor clinical status for decreased effectiveness and adjust the trientine dose if necessary.

DISCUSSION: Multivitamins with minerals may decrease trientine absorption so ensure patient is aware of the risks and counsel on instructions for concurrent use.

Tetracyclines/Coumarin Anticoagulants

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown. Tetracyclines may interfere with vitamin-K producing gut flora.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The addition of a tetracycline to a patient maintained on a coumarin anticoagulant may result in increased anticoagulant effects, including bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: he risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients maintained on coumarin anticoagulants should be closely monitored when tetracyclines are initiated and discontinued. The dosage of the anticoagulant may need to be adjusted. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling. The time of highest risk for a coumarin-type drug interaction is when the precipitant drug is initiated or discontinued. Contact the prescriber before initiating, altering the dose or discontinuing either drug.

DISCUSSION: In a retrospective review of patients receiving either acenocoumarol or phenprocoumon, use of doxycycline and tetracycline was associated with relative risk of major bleeding of 3 and 9, respectively.(1) There are several case reports of bleeding following the addition of doxycycline(2-4) and tetracycline(5,6) to warfarin therapy.

Tetracyclines/Divalent & Trivalent Cations

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Di- and trivalent cations may form chelation complexes with tetracyclines, preventing their absorption.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of di- or trivalent cations may result in decreased levels of and therapeutics effects from tetracyclines.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Administer tetracyclines at least two hours before or after the di- or trivalent cations. When used for the treatment of H. pylori infection, tetracyclines and bismuth should be given simultaneously. The US manufacturer of omadacycline states to fast for at least four hours, administer omadacycline, and then wait four hours before taking di- or trivalent cations.(21) The US manufacturer of ferric maltose recommends separation of ferric maltose by at least 4 hours.(22)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of aluminum hydroxide or divalent cations (such as calcium, magnesium, or zinc) has been shown to significantly decrease the gastrointestinal absorption of tetracycline.(3-5) Concurrent administration of tetracycline and magnesium-aluminum hydroxide gel has been shown to decrease the tetracycline area-under-curve (AUC) by 90%.(6) Magnesium-aluminum silicate has been shown to decrease the AUC of tetracycline by 27%.(7) Demeclocycline(8,9) methacycline,(10) chlortetracycline,(11) and oxytetracycline(10,12) have been shown to interact with aluminum hydroxide and/or dairy products. Doxycycline has been reported to interact with aluminum hydroxide gel.(13) Aluminum magnesium hydroxide has been shown to decrease doxycycline absorption by 84%.(14) Minocycline absorption has been shown to be impaired by aluminum, calcium, and magnesium.(15) Bismuth subsalicylate has been shown to decrease absorption of doxycycline and tetracycline by 37%(16) and 34%,(17) respectively. Since sucralfate is an aluminum salt of a sulfated disaccharide, it may also prevent absorption of tetracyclines. This complex has been used to provide site-specific delivery of tetracycline to gastric ulcers in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori gastric ulcer disease and may be useful in some indications.(18) Quinapril tablets contain a high percentage of magnesium and have been shown to decrease the absorption of tetracycline by 28-37%.(19) Lanthanum is expected to interact with tetracyclines as well.(20)

Tetracyclines; Tigecycline/Contraceptives

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Not established.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Reduced pharmacologic effects of oral contraceptives with resultant breakthrough bleeding and pregnancy may occur.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Current guidelines suggest that additional precautions are not necessary when non-enzyme inducing antibiotics are used concurrently with hormonal contraceptives; however, some patients may still prefer to use an additional method of contraception.

DISCUSSION: Evidence for this interaction is limited and conflicting; however, the CDC and the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare Clinical Effectiveness Unit no longer recommend use of a backup contraceptive method during use of a non-enzyme inducing antibiotic. Pregnancy has been reported following the addition of tetracycline to oral contraceptive therapy.(1) In contrast, a study in 7 healthy women found no effect of tetracycline on ethinyl estradiol or norethindrone levels.(2) A study in 24 healthy women found no significant effects of doxycycline on ethinyl estradiol, norethindrone, or progesterone levels. However, the authors noted that there large inter-patient and inter-patient variability in these levels and that the interaction may just manifest itself in a small proportion of women.(3)

*Known hypersensitivity to doxycycline or any tetracycline.

• Aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease
• Hemolytic anemia from pyruvate kinase and g6PD deficiencies

• Clostridioides difficile infection
• Esophageal dysmotility
• Intracranial hypertension
• Myasthenia gravis
• Pregnancy

• Peripheral vascular disease

Common adverse effects reported in patients receiving tetracyclines include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, photosensitivity, urticaria, and hemolytic anemia.

More Frequent

• Dental discoloration

Less Frequent

• Hypertension
• Serum sickness
• Skin photosensitivity

Rare or Very Rare

• Acute eruptions of skin
• Acute lupus erythematosus
• Anaphylaxis
• Anaphylaxis
• Angioedema
• Burns
• Clostridioides difficile infection
• Depression
• DRESS syndrome
• Dyspnea
• Erythema multiforme
• Esophageal ulcer
• Exfoliative dermatitis
• Facial edema
• Fungal infection
• Hallucinations
• Hemolytic anemia
• Hepatitis
• Hypersensitivity drug reaction
• Hypersensitivity drug reaction
• Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
• Insomnia
• Intracranial hypertension
• Maculopapular rash
• Neutropenic disorder
• Pancreatitis
• Pericarditis
• Periorbital edema
• Pharyngeal edema
• Purpura
• Skin ulcer
• Stevens-johnson syndrome
• Suicidal ideation
• Superficial skin ulcer
• Symptoms of anxiety
• Syncope
• Throat constriction
• Thrombocytopenic disorder
• Toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Urticaria
• Urticaria

More Frequent

• Nausea
• Stinging of skin
• Vomiting

Less Frequent

• Anorexia
• Diarrhea
• Dry skin
• Headache disorder
• Pharyngitis
• Skin irritation
• Upper abdominal pain
• Vaginitis
• Vulvovaginal candidiasis

Rare or Very Rare

• Anogenital candidiasis
• Dream disorder
• Dysphagia
• Enterocolitis
• Eosinophilia
• Erythema
• Esophagitis
• Glossitis
• Jarisch-herxheimer reaction
• Pruritus of skin
• Skin pigmentation enhancement
• Skin rash

No enhanced messaging available.

Like other tetracyclines, because of the potential effects on tooth development and growth, doxycycline should not be used in children <8 years of age unless other appropriate drugs would be ineffective or are contraindicated. However, the manufacturers, AAP, CDC, and Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) state that use of doxycycline in children <8 years of age can be considered in certain circumstances when the potential benefits outweigh the risks. These circumstances include the treatment or prophylaxis of anthrax (including inhalational anthrax (postexposure)), treatment of moderate to severe cholera, treatment of leptospirosis, and treatment of presumed or confirmed rickettsial infections, including RMSF, Q fever, ehrlichiosis+, and anaplasmosis+.

Doxycycline is recommended by AAP and CDC as the drug of choice for presumed or confirmed Rickettsial infections (including RMSF) or ehrlichiosis+ (including human granulocytotropic anaplasmosis+ and human monocytotropic ehrlichiosis+) in children of any age.

The CDC states that children <8 years of age with uncomplicated malaria may receive a regimen that includes doxycycline (or tetracycline) if other treatment options are not available or not tolerated and the potential benefits outweigh risks.

Despite the paucity of pediatric data, IDSA/American Academy of Neurology (AAN)/American College of Rheumatology (ACR) state that it is prudent to extrapolate the use of single-dose doxycycline prophylaxis of Lyme disease to children. Caregivers should be informed that there is no study of the efficacy of doxycycline prophylaxis for Lyme disease in pediatric patients <12 years of age and that it is still important to monitor pediatric patients who receive doxycycline prophylaxis for symptoms and signs of Lyme disease. IDSA/AAN/ACR and AAP also state that doxycycline is a drug of choice for the treatment of Lyme disease associated with erythema migrans, Lyme meningitis, Lyme carditis, and Lyme arthritis. Although doxycycline generally is not recommended for pediatric patients <8 years of age, AAP states that the drug is considered safe when used for <=21 days in pediatric patients of any age. IDSA/AAN/ACR state that a growing consensus accepts the safety of doxycycline in young children for at least up to 14 days' duration. AAP states that doxycycline is the preferred oral antibiotic treatment for pediatric patients of any age with Lyme disease-associated facial palsy.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies on the use of doxycycline in pregnant women. There are no human data available to assess the effects of long-term therapy of doxycycline in pregnant women such as that proposed for the treatment of anthrax exposure. There are no available data on the risk of miscarriage following exposure to doxycycline in pregnancy; the effect of tetracyclines on labor and delivery also is not known. If any tetracycline is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking these drugs, apprise the patient of the potential hazard to the fetus. The manufacturer states that doxycycline injection has not been studied in pregnant patients and should be used in pregnant patients only if it is essential for the welfare of the patient.

The vast majority of reported experience with doxycycline during human pregnancy is short-term, first-trimester exposure. An expert review of published data on experiences with doxycycline use during pregnancy by the Teratogen Information System (TERIS) concluded based on data assessed as limited to fair that therapeutic doses during pregnancy are unlikely to pose a substantial teratogenic risk; however, the data are insufficient rule out such risk.

Like other tetracycline-class antibacterial drugs, doxycycline may cause discoloration of deciduous teeth and reversible inhibition of bone growth when administered during the second and third trimester of pregnancy. Discoloration of the teeth, which may be permanent, is more common during long-term use of the drug but has been observed following repeated short-term courses.

Results of animal studies indicate that tetracyclines cross the placenta, are found in fetal tissues, and can have toxic effects on the developing fetus (often related to retardation of skeletal development). Evidence of embryotoxicity also has been noted in animals treated early in pregnancy.

Current CDC guidelines on the treatment of anthrax state that while tetracycline and minocycline are not recommended in pregnant subjects, doxycycline has not been associated with fetal growth delays, infant tooth staining, or maternal fatty liver. The CDC guidelines state that doxycycline is considered a first-line agent for empiric postexposure anthrax prophylaxis, treatment of cutaneous anthrax without signs or symptoms of meningitis, and in combination regimens for the treatment of systemic anthrax with or without meningitis in pregnant adults.

Malaria infection in pregnant women is associated with high risks of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality (e.g., miscarriage, premature delivery, low birth weight, congenital infection and/or perinatal death). For the treatment of uncomplicated malaria acquired in areas with chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum in pregnant women, the CDC recommends treatment with artemether-lumefantrine, mefloquine, or a combination of quinine sulfate and clindamycin. For pregnant women diagnosed with uncomplicated malaria caused by P. malariae, P. ovale, chloroquine-sensitive P. vivax, or chloroquine-sensitive P. falciparum infection, prompt treatment with chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine is recommended. For chloroquine-resistant P. vivax infections, artemether-lumefantrine, quinine plus clindamycin, or mefloquine is recommended. However, CDC states that a regimen of quinine in conjunction with doxycycline (or tetracycline) may be used for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in pregnant women in rare circumstances (e.g., if other treatment options are not available or not tolerated) if benefits outweigh risks. For the treatment of severe malaria in pregnant patients, the CDC recommends treatment with IV artesunate.

The CDC states that doxycycline has been used successfully to treat tickborne rickettsial diseases in pregnant women without adverse effects to the mother; however, follow-up to address potential adverse effects to the fetus has been limited. Data suggest that treatment with doxycycline at the recommended dose and duration for tickborne rickettsial diseases is unlikely to pose a substantial teratogenic risk; however, data are insufficient to rule out such risk. For potentially life-threatening illnesses, such as RMSF and Ehrlichia chaffeensis ehrlichiosis, consideration of disease-related risks for the mother and fetus is of paramount importance.

Tetracyclines are distributed into human milk; however, the extent of absorption of tetracyclines, including doxycycline, by the breast-fed infant is not known.

Short-term use in lactating women is not necessarily contraindicated. The effects of prolonged exposure to doxycycline on breast milk production and on breast-fed neonates, infants, and children are unknown. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that maternal use of tetracyclines usually is compatible with breast-feeding since absorption of the drugs by nursing infants is negligible.

Consider the developmental and health benefits of breast-feeding along with the mother's clinical need for doxycycline and any potential adverse effects on the breast-fed child from the drug or the underlying maternal condition. Some manufacturers state that because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breast-feeding infants from doxycycline, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. At least one manufacturer states that breast-feeding is not recommended during treatment with doxycycline and for 5 days following the last dose.

Clinical studies of doxycycline did not include sufficient numbers of patients >=65 years of age to determine whether they respond differently from younger adults. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between geriatric patients and younger adults.