Antimalarial Medication
Welcome to Qoctor’s online doctor service which provides assessment, advice & treatment for people who are travelling to malarial zones. First we’ll ask some questions about your health, just as a doctor does in clinic. If treatment is appropriate, you can have your medication delivered safely & securely from our partner pharmacies– or have a paper prescription posted to you or your local pharmacy.
About Malaria
- Malaria is a potentially life-threatening infection caused by a parasite (called Plasmodium) which is passed to humans by mosquito bites.
- The Malaria parasite infects red blood cells and the liver, and can cause serious illness and death.
- Preventive medication is recommended when travelling to malarial zones, to reduce the risk of infection.
FAQs- Malaria
Malaria is a potentially life-threatening infection caused by a parasite (called Plasmodium) which is passed to humans by mosquito bites. It infects red blood cells and the liver, and can cause serious illness and death.
The Malaria parasite (plasmodium) is carried by the Anopheles mosquito, which tends to bite in the evening. The parasite is passed from the insect’s mouth into the human body, and enters the bloodstream, soon making its way to the liver. After 1-2 weeks in the liver (the duration depends on the strain of Malaria parasite), it re-enters the bloodstream, invades red blood cells, multiplies and bursts out of them, thus continuing the cycle. It usually takes 1-4 weeks for symptoms of Malaria to appear- again, this depends on the strain of Malaria parasite.
There are 5 types of Malaria, caused by different forms of the Plasmodium parasite.
- Plasmodium falciparum
- Plasmodium ovale
- Plasmodium vivax
- Plasmodium malariae
A fifth form known as Plasmodium knowlesi primarily affects monkeys. Plasmodium vivax and falciparum are the most common, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most dangerous form. Plasmodium vivax and ovale parasites can lie dormant in the liver- there have been cases where Malaria “reactivates” many years later.
Australia was declared free of Malaria in 1981, but a few hundred cases happen here each year, as people return from travel abroad. There have also been some cases in the Torres Strait Islands. It is widespread in large parts of Africa, Asia, South America, the Pacific Islands and other places. When intending to travel, it is important to find out about the risk of Malaria at your destination(s) in advance.
Symptoms of Malaria include:
- Fever
- Chills & sweats
- Aches & pains
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
Life-threatening complications of Plasmodium falciparum infection include:
- Jaundice (yellow discoloration of the eyes & skin)
- Abnormalities in blood clotting
- Kidney Failure
- Liver Failure
- Haemolytic Anaemia (a low blood count due to breakdown of red blood cells)
- Rupture of the spleen
- Shock (a dangerous drop in blood pressure leading to poor blood circulation)
- Pulmonary Oedema (fluid in the lungs)
- Confusion and coma (caused by cerebral malaria- i.e inflammation of the brain)
It’s essential to avoid getting mosquito bites in the first place:
- try to stay indoors at times of the day when mosquitoes are most active
- ideally, stay in an air-conditioned room with insect screens, and/or sleep under a mosquito net that’s been treated with Permethrin.
- apply appropriate mosquito repellent to your body and spray it on your clothing too
- wear long sleeves and trousers, particularly at times when mosquitoes are active
- burn mosquito coils in outdoor areas
Preventive medication is also recommended in areas with high malaria risk.
Malaria may be suspected due to symptoms during or after travel to a malarial zone. It’s possible to get Malaria even if you’ve taken preventive medication- so anyone with suspicious symptoms should see a doctor for assessment. The diagnosis can be confirmed by a blood test
Treatment for Malaria usually requires an admission to hospital. There are different treatment options- the choice of medication will depend on the location and the particular strain. The parasite has become resistant to some commonly used medications. This drug resistance varies from region to region, and can change over time. Therefore, it’s vital that the most up-to-date treatment advice is available, for the location in question.
Health Library- Malaria
Malaria- why is it so dangerous?
Malaria- what is it and why is it dangerous? introduction spread types symptoms diagnosis Hopping online and booking tickets for a holiday overseas might just take a few seconds, but it’s important to stop and give a moment’s thought to the risk of Malaria in your chosen destination. There were 216 million cases of Malaria across the globe in 2016, with almost half a million deaths! It’s still a huge killer, and although there are medications that help to prevent and treat it , certain forms can be lethal, despite treatment. What is Malaria? Malaria is a potentially life-threatening infection caused by a parasite (called Plasmodium) which is transmitted to humans by mosquito bites. In humans it infects red blood cells and the liver and can cause serious illness and death. Which countries have Malaria? Australia was declared free of Malaria in 1981, but [...]
Consumer Medication Information (CMI)
Malarone® Tablets (250/100)
Junior Tablets (62.5/25) (Atovaquone and Proguanil Hydrochloride)
Consumer Medicine Information
What is in this leaflet
Unless explained differently, the information for “Malarone” in this leaflet applies to both Malarone Tablets (250/100) and Malarone Junior Tablets (62.5/25) (refer to the “Product description” section near the end of the leaflet for a description of these two products).
Please read this leaflet carefully before you take Malarone.
This leaflet answers some common questions about Malarone. It does not contain all of the available information.
It does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
All medicines have risks and benefits. Your doctor has weighed the expected benefits of you taking Malarone against the risks this medicine could have for you.
If you have any concerns about taking this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Keep this leaflet with the medicine.
You may need to read it again.
What is Malarone used for?
Malarone belongs to a broad group of medicines called antimalarials.
It contains in one tablet a mixture of two antimalarial medicines which work well when taken together. One medicine is atovaquone and the other is proguanil hydrochloride.
Malarone is used to prevent or treat the type of malaria infection known as Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Plasmodium falciparum belongs to one particular family of malaria parasites. It affects the blood and liver. Malarone works by killing this parasite.
Malarone is not addictive.
Before you take Malarone
Do not take if:
You must not take Malarone if:
- you have ever had an allergic reaction to atovaquone (Wellvone™) or proguanil hydrochloride (Paludrine), or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet (See “Ingredients”).
- the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack has passed.
- the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering
Tell your doctor if:
You must tell your doctor if:
- you are allergic to foods, dyes, preservatives or any other medicines.
- in the past Malarone has been ineffective for you.
- after taking Malarone, your symptoms of malaria have returned after improving for a time.
- you have diarrhoea (loose bowel motions). This may interfere with the absorption of Malarone.
- you have kidney problems.
- you are taking any medicines containing warfarin, rifampicin, rifabutin, tetracycline, metoclopramide, efavirenz or indinavir.
- you are taking any other medicines, including medicines you buy without a prescription.
- you are breastfeeding, pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
How do I take Malarone?
How much to take Take
Malarone as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
Prevention of malaria:
Adults: One Malarone Tablet (250/100) daily.
Children (11-40 Kg):
Depending on the child’s weight, one, two or three Malarone Junior Tablets (62.5/25) daily. For children over 40 kg in weight, one Malarone Tablet (250/100) once a day. Your doctor will choose the right dose for the child.
In order to prevent malaria, it is important that you take your Malarone every day. Start taking it 1 or 2 days before travelling to a country (or countries) where you are at risk of getting malaria. Continue daily dosing while you are there and for 7 days after leaving.
Whilst in a malarious area, use of personal protection such as permethrin impregnated bednets and topical insect repellents is also strongly recommended.
Treatment of malaria:
Adults:
Four Malarone Tablets (250/100), once a day, for three days.
Children (11-40 Kg):
Depending on the child’s weight, one, two or three Malarone Tablets (250/100) once a day, for three days. For children over 40 kg in weight, four Malarone Tablets (250/100) once a day for three days. Your doctor will choose the right dose for the child.
How to take it
Swallow each tablet whole. Malarone works better if you take it with food or a milky drink and at about the same time each day.
For children who find the tablet(s) difficult to swallow they may be crushed and added to a small amount of milk, just before being taken.
If you vomit within one hour of taking Malarone take another dose as soon as you can. In the event of diarrhoea, normal dosing should be continued and personal protection should be used (repellents, bednets).
How long to take it for
Prevention of malaria:
Malarone should be taken 1 or 2 days before travelling to a country (countries) where you are at risk of getting malaria, and continued daily while you are there and for 7 days after leaving.
Treatment of malaria:
Malarone should be taken for three days in a row.
Do not stop taking Malarone, or change the dose without first checking with your doctor.
Use in children
Malarone is not recommended for the treatment of malaria in children less than 3 years of age.
What do I do if I take too much? (Overdose)
Immediately telephone your doctor or Poisons Information Centre (telephone 131126) for advice, if you think you or anyone else may have taken too much Malarone, even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.
If you are not sure what to do, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
While you are taking Malarone
Things you must do
Tell your doctor if, for any reason, you have not taken your medicine exactly as directed.
If you forget to take a dose, take another as soon as possible. Then go on as before.
Otherwise, your doctor may think that it was not working as it should and change your treatment unnecessarily.
Things you must not do
Do not give this medicine to anyone else, even if their symptoms seem similar to yours.
Do not use Malarone to treat any other complaints unless your doctor says to.
Things to be careful of
Be careful driving or operating machinery until you know how Malarone affects you.
Malarone generally does not cause any problems with your ability to drive a car or operate machinery.
What are the side effects?
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you think you are experiencing any side effects or allergic reactions due to taking Malarone, even if the problem is not listed below.
Like other medicines, Malarone can cause some side effects. If they occur, they are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and need medical attention.
The following side-effects have been reported in persons taking Malarone or the active ingredients (atovaquone or proguanil). Most of these have been mild and have not lasted very long;
- Loss of appetite, feeling sick (nausea) and/or being sick (vomiting), stomach pain, diarrhoea
- Mouth ulcers
- Rash or itching
- Headache, difficulty in sleeping, vivid or strange dreams and dizziness
- Tiredness and loss of energy
- Inflammation of the liver (hepatitis), yellow discolouration of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis) which may be visible as red or purple raised spots on the skin, but can affect other parts of the body
- Cough
- Fever
- Skin rash, which may blister and looks like small targets (central dark spots, surrounded by paler area with a dark ring around the edge (erythema multiforme)
- Widespread rash with blisters and peeling skin, particularly occurring around the mouth, nose, eyes and genitals (StevensJohnson syndrome).
If you notice any of these symptoms contact a doctor urgently.
- Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations).
Sometimes Malarone is associated with abnormal blood tests of liver function. If this does happen it is most likely a temporary change, as blood tests of liver function become normal after completing the treatment.
Other abnormal blood tests reported with Malarone include:
- A reduction in the number of red blood cells (anaemia), white blood cells (neutropenia), or platelets (cells necessary for blood clotting).
- An increase in amylase, which is an enzyme produced by the pancreas.
- Low sodium (hyponatraemia).
STOP taking Malarone and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following severe allergy symptoms after taking Malarone. Although they are rare, these symptoms could be serious:
- Sudden wheezing, tightness of the chest or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Swollen eyelids, face, lips, tongue or other part of the body
- Widespread rash
This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. Others may occur in some people and there may be some side effects not yet known.
Do not be alarmed by this list of possible side effects. You may not experience any of them.
How do I store Malarone?
Keep this medicine where children cannot reach it, such as in a locked cupboard.
Keep Malarone in a cool, dry place where it stays below 30°C.
Do not leave in a car, on a window sill or in the bathroom.
Keep Malarone in its blister pack until it is time to take the tablets.
Return any unused or expired medicine to your pharmacist.
Product description
What Malarone looks like
Malarone Tablets (250/100) are round, pink and film-coated, and are engraved with “GX CM3”.
Malarone Tablets (250/100) are supplied in blister packs of 12 and 24 tablets.
Malarone Junior Tablets (62.5/25) are round, pink and film-coated, and are engraved with “GX CG7”.
Malarone Junior Tablets (62.5/25) are supplied in blister packs of 12 tablets.
Ingredients
Malarone Tablets (250/100) contain the active ingredients, atovaquone 250 mg and proguanil hydrochloride 100 mg.
Malarone Junior Tablets (62.5/25) contain the active ingredients, atovaquone 62.5 mg and proguanil hydrochloride 25 mg.
Each tablet also contains hydroxypropylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone K30, sodium starch glycollate, macrogol 400, magnesium stearate, macrogol 8000, poloxamer 188 and pink colour concentrate OY-S-24972.
Supplier
Your Malarone is supplied by:
GlaxoSmithKline Australia Pty Ltd
Level 4, 436 Johnston Street
Abbotsford, Victoria, 3067
Australia.
Where to go for further information
Pharmaceutical companies are not in a position to give people an individual diagnosis or medical advice. Your doctor or pharmacist is the best person to give you advice on the treatment of your condition. You may also be able to find general information about your disease and its treatment from books, for example in public libraries.
This leaflet was prepared on 17 December 2015
The information provided applies only to: Malarone®.
Malarone® is a registered trade mark of the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies.
Wellvone™ is a trade mark of the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies.
Malarone Tablets: AUST R 61100.
Malarone Junior Tablets: AUST R 92855
© GlaxoSmithKline 2013 Version 8.0
Promozio® 250/100
(Atovaquone and Proguanil Hydrochloride)
Consumer Medicine Information
What is in this leaflet
Please read this leaflet carefully before you take Promozio 250/100.
This leaflet answers some common questions about Promozio 250/100. It does not contain all of the available information.
It does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
All medicines have risks and benefits. Your doctor has weighed the expected benefits of you taking Promozio 250/100 against the risks this medicine could have for you.
If you have any concerns about taking this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Keep this leaflet with the medicine.
You may need to read it again
What is Promozio 250/100 used for?
Promozio 250/100 belongs to a broad group of medicines called antimalarials.
It contains in one tablet a mixture of two antimalarial medicines which work well when taken together. One medicine is atovaquone and the other is proguanil hydrochloride.
Promozio 250/100 is used to prevent or treat the type of malaria infection known as Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Plasmodium falciparum belongs to one particular family of malaria parasites. It affects the blood and liver. Promozio 250/100 works by killing this parasite.
Promozio 250/100 is not addictive.
Before you take Promozio 250/100
Do not take it:
You must not take Promozio 250/100 if:
- you have ever had an allergic reaction to atovaquone (Wellvone™) or proguanil hydrochloride (Paludrine), or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet (See “Ingredients”).
- the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack has passed.
- the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering
Tell your doctor if:
You must tell your doctor if:
- you are allergic to foods, dyes, preservatives or any other medicines.
- in the past Promozio 250/100 has been ineffective for you.
- after taking Promozio 250/100, your symptoms of malaria have returned after improving for a time.
- you have diarrhoea (loose bowel motions). This may interfere with the absorption of Promozio 250/100.
- you have kidney problems.
- you are taking any medicines containing warfarin, rifampicin, rifabutin, tetracycline, metoclopramide or indinavir.
- you are taking any other medicines, including medicines you buy without a prescription.
- you are breastfeeding, pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
How do I take Promozio 250/100?
How much to take
Take Promozio 250/100 as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
Prevention of malaria:
Adults:
One Promozio 250/100 tablet daily.
In order to prevent malaria, it is important that you take your Promozio 250/100 every day. Start taking it 1 or 2 days before travelling to a country (or countries) where you are at risk of getting malaria.
Continue daily dosing while you are there and for 7 days after leaving.
Whilst in a malarious area, use of personal protection such as permethrin impregnated bednets and topical insect repellents is also strongly recommended.
Treatment of malaria:
Adults:
Four Promozio 250/100 tablets, once a day, for three days.
How to take it
Swallow each tablet whole. Promozio 250/100 works better if you take it with food or a milky drink and at about the same time each day.
If you vomit within one hour of taking Promozio 250/100 take another dose as soon as you can. In the event of diarrhoea, normal dosing should be continued and personal protection should be used (repellants, bednets).
How long to take it for
Prevention of malaria:
Promozio 250/100 should be taken 1 or 2 days before travelling to a country (countries) where you are at risk of getting malaria, and continued daily while you are there and for 7 days after leaving.
Treatment of malaria:
Promozio 250/100 should be taken for three days in a row.
Do not stop taking Promozio 250/100, or change the dose without first checking with your doctor.
Use in children
Promozio 250/100 is not recommended for the treatment of malaria in children.
What do I do if I take too much? (Overdose)
Immediately telephone your doctor or Poisons Information Centre (telephone 131126) for advice, if you think you or anyone else may have taken too much Promozio 250/100, even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.
If you are not sure what to do, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
While you are taking Promozio 250/100
Things you must do
Tell your doctor if, for any reason, you have not taken your medicine exactly as directed.
If you forget to take a dose, take another as soon as possible. Then go on as before.
Otherwise, your doctor may think that it was not working as it should and change your treatment unnecessarily.
Things you must not do
Do not give this medicine to anyone else, even if their symptoms seem similar to yours.
Do not use Promozio 250/100 to treat any other complaints unless your doctor says to.
Things to be careful of
Be careful driving or operating machinery until you know how Promozio 250/100 affects you.
Promozio 250/100 generally does not cause any problems with your ability to drive a car or operate machinery.
What are the side effects?
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you think you are experiencing any side effects or allergic reactions due to taking Promozio 250/100, even if the problem is not listed below.
Like other medicines, Promozio 250/100 can cause some side effects. If they occur, they are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and need medical attention.
The following side-effects have been reported in persons taking Promozio 250/100 or the active ingredients (atovaquone or proguanil). Most of these have been mild and have not lasted very long:
- Loss of appetite, feeling sick (nausea) and/or being sick (vomiting), stomach pain, diarrhoea
- mouth ulcers
- rash or itching
- Headache, difficulty in sleeping, vivid or strange dreams and dizziness
- Tiredness and loss of energy
- Inflammation of the liver (hepatitis), yellow discolouration of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis) which may be visible as red or purple raised spots on the skin, but can affect other parts of the body
- Cough
- Fever
- Skin rash, which may blister and looks like small targets (central dark sports, surrounded by paler area with a dark ring around the edge (erythema multiforme)
- Widespread rash with blisters and peeling skin, particularly occurring around the mouth, nose, eyes and genitals (StevensJohnson syndrome).
If you notice any of these symptoms contact a doctor urgently.
- Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations).
Sometimes Promozio 250/100 is associated with abnormal blood tests of liver function. If this does happen it is most likely a temporary change, as blood tests of liver function become normal after completing the treatment.
Other abnormal blood tests reported with Promozio 250/100 include:
- A reduction in the number of red blood cells (anaemia), white blood cells (neutropenia), or platelets (cells necessary for blood clotting).
- An increase in amylase, which is an enzyme produced by the pancreas.
- Low sodium (hyponatraemia).
STOP taking Promozio 250/100 and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following severe allergy symptoms after taking Promozio 250/100. Although they are rare, these symptoms could be serious:
- Sudden wheezing, tightness of the chest or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Swollen eyelids, face, lips, tongue or other part of the body
- Widespread rash
This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. Others may occur in some people and there may be some side effects not yet known.
Do not be alarmed by this list of possible side effects. You may not experience any of them.
How do I store Promozio 250/100?
Keep this medicine where children cannot reach it, such as in locked cupboard.
Keep Promozio 250/100 in a cool, dry place where it stays below 25°C.
Do not leave in a car, on a window sill or in the bathroom.
Keep Promozio 250/100 in its blister pack until it is time to take the tablets.
Return any unused or expired medicine to your pharmacist.
Product description
What Promozio 250/100 looks like
Promozio 250/100 tablets are pinkish brown to brown coloured, round with ‘404’ engraved on one side and ‘G’ engraved on the other side. Promozio 250/100 tablets are supplied in blister packs of 12 tablets.
Ingredients
Promozio 250/100 tablets contain the active ingredients, atovaquone 250 mg and proguanil hydrochloride 100 mg.
Each tablet also contains microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, sodium starch glycollate, poloxamer , povidone, silica – colloidal anhydrous, magnesium stearate, and Opadry complete film coating system 03C86943 BROWN.
Supplier
Promozio 250/100 is supplied by:
Australia:
sanofi-aventis australia pty ltd Building D, 12-24 Talavera Road Macquarie Park NSW 2113
Australia
Tel: 1800 829 468
New Zealand:
sanofi-aventis new zealand limited Level 8, 56 Cawley St Ellerslie, Auckland
New Zealand
Tel: 0800 727 838
AUST R number
AUST R 259969
Date of preparation
27 June 2016 promozio-piv1.2-27Jun16
Doxycycline AN tablets
(Doxycycline hydrochloride 50 mg & 100 mg tablets)
Consumer Medicine Information
What is in this leaflet
This leaflet answers some common questions about Doxycycline AN.
It does not contain all of the available information. It does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
All medicines have benefits and risks. Your doctor has weighed the risks of you taking Doxycycline AN against the benefits they expect it will have for you.
If you have any concerns about taking this medicine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Keep this leaflet with your medicine.
You may need to read it again.
What Doxycycline AN is used for
Doxycycline AN is an antibiotic used to
- Treat certain infections
- Control acne
- Prevent malaria
Doxycyline AN tablets belong to a class of medicines called tetracyclines.
These medicines work by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria which cause infections or make acne worse. They also work against parasites which cause malaria. Tetracyclines will not work against viral infections such as colds or the ‘flu’.
Your doctor, however, may prescribe Doxycycline AN for another purpose. Ask your doctor if you have any questions about why Doxycycline AN has been prescribed for you.
This medicine is only available with a doctor’s prescription.
There is no evidence that Doxycycline AN is addictive.
Before You Take Doxycycline AN
When you must not take Doxycycline AN
Do not take Doxycycline AN if:
- You have ever had an allergic reaction to
- Medicines containing doxycycline, or doxycycline hydrochloride
- Medicines containing other tetracyclines
- Any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet
Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction to tetracyclines may include: rash, itching or hives of the skin, swelling of the face, lops and tongue or other parts of the body, shortness of breath, wheezing or troubled breathing
- You are taking preparations containing Vitamin A, isotretinoin or etretinate
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure if you are taking one of these medicines
- You are in the second or third trimester of pregnancy or breastfeeding
As with many medicines, tetracyclines can harm the developing or breastfeeding baby. This may include enamel loss and staining of the child’s teeth and increase the pressure on your child’s brain. High doses of tetracyclines may also cause liver problems in pregnant women.
If you are not sure whether you should be taking Doxycycline AN, talk to your doctor.
Do not take Doxycycline AN if:
- The expiry date on the pack has passed
If you take this medicine after the expiry date has passed it may have no effect at all, or worse, an entirely unexpected effect.
- The packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering.
Do not give Doxycycline AN to children of eight years and under unless directed by the child’s doctor.
Doxycycline AN like all other tetracyclines may cause enamel loss and staining in developing teeth.
Before you start to take Doxycycline AN
You must tell your doctor if:
- You are allergic to any other medicines or substances such as foods, dyes or preservatives
- You have or have ever had any other health problems
- You plan to become pregnant or breastfeed
- You are scheduled to have surgery under general anaesthetic
- You are exposed to direct sunlight or ultra violet light
If you have not told your doctor or pharmacist about any of the above, tell them before you start taking Doxycycline AN.
Taking other medicines
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including any that you buy without a prescription from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.
Some medicines and Doxycycline AN may interfere with each other, including:
- preparations containing Vitamin A
- some medicines used for skin problems such as isotretinoin or etretinate
- warfarin, a medicine used to stop blood clotting
- another group of antibiotics called penicillins
- Methoxyflurane, an inhaled anaesthetic
- Barbiturates such as phenobarbitone
- Medicines containing sodium bicarbonate
- Acetazolamide and ethoxzolamide, a medicine used to treat glaucoma
- The contraceptive pill (birth control pill). Doxycycline AN may decrease the effectiveness of some birth control pills. Your doctor may advise you to use an alternative method of contraception while taking Doxycycline AN
- some medicines for epilepsy such as phenytoin, carbemazepine or phenobarbitone
These medicines may be affected by Doxycycline AN or may affect how well it works. You may need different amounts of your medicine.
Some medicines may interfere with the absorption of Doxycycline AN tablets. These include:
- iron preparations, including vitamin preparations which contain iron
- antacids used for indigestion containing aluminium, calcium or magnesium
- do not drink alcohol or take any of these medicines if you are taking Doxycycline AN tablets.
You can still take these medicines while you are taking Doxycycline AN. However, you must take your Doxycycline AN Tablets at least two hours before or two hours after taking any of these medicines to make sure that there is no problem with absorption.
How to take Doxycycline AN
Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and pharmacist carefully. They may differ from the information contained in this leaflet. If you do not understand the instructions on the pack, ask your doctor or pharmacist for help
How much to take
Depending on your condition, your doctor will tell you how much Doxycycline AN to take. Follow all instructions carefully.
How to take it
Swallow the prescribed dose of Doxycycline AN whole with a full glass of water or milk while standing upright. Do not lie down immediately after swallowing Doxycycline AN. It is important to drink adequate amounts of fluid and to stay upright, for example sitting, standing or walking for at least half an hour after swallowing your tablet. This is to help avoid irritation and ulceration oesophagus (foodpipe).
When to take it
Take Doxycycline AN tablets during or immediately after a meal, at about the same time each day (usually in the morning). If taken on an empty stomach, Doxycycline AN may cause a stomach upset.
Late evening ingestion of the tablet should be avoided.
How long to take it
For controlling acne, Doxycycline AN tablets should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. For severe acne the tablets may be taken up to a maximum of 12 weeks.
For treating infections Doxycycline AN tablets are usually taken for one to two weeks. Do not stop taking Doxycycline AN because you are feeling better. If you do not complete the full course prescribed by your doctor, the infection may not clear completely or your symptoms may return.
For preventing malaria, Doxycycline AN tablets are normally recommended to be taken for up to a maximum of eight weeks.
However, your doctor may prescribe Doxycycline AN tablets for longer periods. Check with your doctor if you are not sure how long you should be taking it.
Continue taking Doxycycline AN tablets until you finish the pack or until your doctor recommends.
Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and pharmacist carefully.
If you forget to take Doxycycline AN
If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose when you are meant to.
Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, and then go back to taking your tablets as you would normally
Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose you missed.
If you are not sure what to do, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
If you take too much (overdose)
Immediately telephone your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre (telephone 13 11 26) for advice, or go to Accident and Emergency at the nearest hospital, if you think you or anyone else may have taken too much Doxycycline AN. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.
You may need urgent medical attention.
Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
While you are taking Doxycycline AN
Things you must do
If the symptoms of your infection do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, tell your doctor.
If you get severe diarrhoea tell your doctor, pharmacist or nurse immediately. Do this even if this occurs several weeks after you have stopped taking Doxycycline AN.
Diarrhoea may mean that you have a serious condition affecting your bowel. You may need urgent medical care. Do not take any diarrhoea medicine without first checking with your doctor.
If you get a sore white mouth or tongue while taking or soon after stopping Doxycycline AN tell your doctor. Also tell your doctor if you get vaginal itching or discharge. This may mean you have a fungal infection called thrush. Sometimes the use of Doxycycline AN allows fungi to grow and the above symptoms to occur. Doxycycline AN do not work against fungi.
If you become pregnant while you are taking Doxycycline AN, tell your doctor.
If you are about to start taking a new medicine tell your doctor and pharmacist that you are taking Doxycycline AN.
Things you must not do
Do not stop taking your tablets because you are feeling better, unless advised to do so by your doctor.
If you do not complete the full course prescribed by your doctor, the infection may not clear completely or your symptoms may return.
Do not give Doxycycline AN to anyone else even if they have the same condition as you.
Do not use Doxycycline AN to treat any other complaints unless your doctor tells you to.
Things to be careful of
Protect your skin when you are in the sun, especially between 10am and 3pm. Doxycycline may cause your skin to be much more sensitive to sunlight than it is normally.
Exposure to sunlight may cause a skin rash, itching, redness, or a severe sunburn. If outdoors, wear protective clothing and use a 30+ sunscreen. If your skin does appear to be burning, stop taking doxycycline and tell your doctor.
Be careful of driving or operating machinery until you know how Doxycycline AN affects you. Doxycycline AN does not normally cause any problems with your ability to drive a car or operate machinery. However, as with many other medicines Doxycycline tablets may cause tiredness in some people.
Side Effects
Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you have any problems while you are taking Doxycycline AN, even if you do not think that the problems are connected with the medicine or are not listed in this leaflet.
Like all medicines, Doxycycline AN can cause side effects. If they occur, most are likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and need medical attention.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist to answer any questions you may have.
While taking Doxycycline AN
Tell your doctor if you notice any of the following and they worry you:
- oral thrush – white, furry, sore tongue and mouth
- vaginal thrush – sore and itchy vagina and/or discharge
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- stomach pain
- darkened tongue
- taste loss
- tooth discolouration
Tell your doctor immediately, or go to the nearest casualty at your local hospital if you notice any of the following:
- skin rash/hives/itchy skin
- joint pain
- difficulty breathing
- fever
- sore throat
- more frequent bruising than normal
- severe sunburn
- yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice).
After finishing Doxycycline AN
Tell you doctor immediately if you notice any of the following side effects, particularly if they occur several weeks after stopping treatment with Doxycycline AN
- severe abdominal cramps or stomach cramps
- watery and severe diarrhoea, which may also be bloody
- fever in combination with one or both of the above
These are rare but serious side effects. You may have a serious condition affecting your bowel. Therefore you may need urgent medical attention.
However, this side effect is very rare.
Do not take any diarrhoea medicine without checking with your doctor first.
Some people may experience other side effects while taking Doxycycline AN.
Tell your doctor if you notice any other effects.
Do not be alarmed by this list of possible side effects you may not experience any of them.
After taking Doxycycline AN
Storage
Keep your tablets in the blister pack until it is time to take them.
If you take the tablets out of the blister pack they may not keep well.
Keep your tablets in a cool dry place where the temperature stays below 30oC.
Do not store Doxycycline AN or any other medicine in the bathroom or near a sink.
Do not leave Doxycycline AN in the car or on window sills. Heat and dampness can destroy some medicines.
Keep Doxycycline AN where children cannot reach it.
A locked cupboard at least oneand-a-half metres above the ground is a good place to store medicines.
Disposal
If your doctor tells you to stop taking Doxycycline AN, or your tablets have passed their expiry date, ask your pharmacist what to do with any that are left over.
Product description
What it looks like
Doxycycline AN 50 mg and 100 mg tablets contain 50 or 100 mg of doxycycline respectively as doxycycline hyclate (hydrochloride). Doxycycline AN 50 mg tablets White film-coated, circular, biconvex tablet having a diameter of approximately 6.3mm. Presented in PVC/PVDC/Al blister packs of 25 tablets (AUST R 148807)
Doxycycline AN 100 mg tablets White, film-coated, biconvex tablets with a breakline on one face, for oral use, diameter 9.1mm. Presented in PVC/PVDC/Al blister packs of 7 or 21 tablets (AUST R 148808), or HDPE bottles of 7 tablets (AUST R 148813).
Ingredients
Active Ingredient:
Doxycycline (as hyclate) (hydrochloride)
Other Ingredients:
- microcrystalline cellulose
- magnesium stearate
- colloidal anhydrous silica
- maize starch
- Opadry White Y-7000B
Doxycycline AN tablets do not contain any gluten, lactose, sucrose, tartrazine or any other azo food dyes.
Name and Address of the Sponsor
Amneal Pharma Australia Pty Ltd
12 River Street South Yarra 3141 Australia
Date of Preparation
November 2017
