Why is this medication prescribed?

Omadacycline is an antibiotic that is prescribed for the treatment of certain bacterial infections. It belongs to a class of antibiotics called tetracyclines and works by inhibiting the growth and spread of bacteria in the body.

Omadacycline is used to treat various types of infections caused by susceptible bacteria, including:

• Community-acquired pneumonia: It is prescribed for the treatment of pneumonia that occurs outside of a hospital or healthcare facility.
• Acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections: Omadacycline can be used to treat skin infections such as cellulitis, abscesses, and wound infections.
• Urinary tract infections: It may be prescribed to treat urinary tract infections caused by susceptible bacteria.
• Uncomplicated gonorrhea: Omadacycline can be used as a treatment option for uncomplicated gonorrhea caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

How should this medicine be used?

Omadacycline is available in the form of oral tablets and should be used according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Here are some general guidelines for using Omadacycline:

• Dosage: Take Omadacycline exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The recommended dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the type and severity of the infection being treated. Follow the instructions provided and do not change the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Timing: Take Omadacycline on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. This is because food can interfere with the absorption of the medication.
• Swallowing: Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet.
• Compliance: Complete the full course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished. Stopping the medication prematurely may allow the infection to return or develop antibiotic resistance.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Omadacycline. Certain medications, such as antacids, iron supplements, and dairy products, may interfere with the absorption of Omadacycline and should be taken at least 2 hours before or after taking the antibiotic.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and ensure that the medication is working effectively.

Remember, these guidelines are general in nature, and it is essential to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider for your particular situation. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Omadacycline, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

Omadacycline is primarily prescribed for the treatment of bacterial infections, as mentioned earlier. However, it’s important to note that the use of Omadacycline or any medication should be determined by a healthcare professional based on a thorough evaluation of the individual’s condition. While there may be off-label or investigational uses for Omadacycline, such uses would require further research and clinical evidence to establish their efficacy and safety.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for using Omadacycline, here are some important points to consider:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to Omadacycline or any other tetracycline antibiotics. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and may require immediate medical attention.
• Medical history: Provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive medical history, including any previous or current medical conditions, especially liver or kidney problems. Omadacycline may require dosage adjustments or extra monitoring in individuals with impaired liver or kidney function.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Omadacycline during pregnancy and lactation has not been established, and your doctor will weigh the potential benefits and risks before prescribing it.
• Drug interactions: Notify your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Omadacycline. Certain medications, such as antacids, iron supplements, and dairy products, may interfere with the absorption of Omadacycline and should be taken at least 2 hours before or after taking the antibiotic.
• Side effects: Like any medication, Omadacycline can cause side effects. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Resistance and superinfections: Antibiotic use, including Omadacycline, can lead to the development of bacterial resistance. It’s important to use Omadacycline only when prescribed by a healthcare professional and to complete the full course of treatment as directed. Additionally, antibiotic use may also result in the overgrowth of non-susceptible bacteria or fungi, leading to secondary infections. If you develop new symptoms or your condition worsens during treatment, inform your doctor.

These precautions are not exhaustive, and it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider or read the medication’s accompanying information leaflet for a complete list of precautions, warnings, and possible interactions specific to your situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for Omadacycline include taking the medication on an empty stomach. It is recommended to take Omadacycline at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. This is because food, especially certain types of food, can interfere with the absorption of the medication. Specifically, avoid consuming dairy products, calcium-rich foods, iron supplements, and antacids within 2 hours of taking Omadacycline, as they can decrease its absorption.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Omadacycline, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Taking extra doses can increase the risk of side effects and will not improve the effectiveness of the medication. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, it is best to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Like any medication, Omadacycline can cause side effects in some individuals. Here are some common side effects associated with Omadacycline:

• Gastrointestinal effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite are commonly reported side effects. It is recommended to take Omadacycline with a full glass of water and on an empty stomach to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking Omadacycline. If the headaches are severe or persistent, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider.
• Dizziness: Omadacycline can sometimes cause dizziness or lightheadedness. It is important to be cautious while performing activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.
• Skin reactions: Skin rash or itching may occur in some cases. If you develop a severe rash, blistering, or any signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.
• Yeast infections: Omadacycline can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the body, potentially leading to yeast infections, such as oral thrush or vaginal yeast infections.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience other, less common side effects. If you have any concerns about the side effects of Omadacycline or if you experience any severe or persistent symptoms, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

• Storage: Keep Omadacycline tablets in their original container at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or on the medication packaging.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets: Store Omadacycline in a secure place, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not use expired medication: Check the expiration date on the medication packaging and do not use Omadacycline if it has expired. Expired medications may be less effective or potentially harmful.
• Proper disposal: If you have any leftover or expired Omadacycline tablets, do not dispose of them in the regular household trash or flush them down the toilet. Follow local guidelines or consult your pharmacist on how to properly dispose of unused medications. Some communities have specific drug take-back programs or disposal sites to ensure safe and environmentally-friendly disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms after taking Omadacycline, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or any other serious reaction, immediately call your local emergency helpline or go to the nearest emergency room. It is helpful to carry the medication packaging or provide information about the medication you have taken to healthcare professionals in such situations.

What other information should I know?

• Compliance: Take Omadacycline as prescribed by your healthcare provider and complete the full course of treatment, even if you start feeling better before the medication is finished. Skipping doses or stopping the medication prematurely may result in incomplete treatment and can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
• Effectiveness of contraception: Omadacycline may potentially reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills. If you are using hormonal contraceptives, it is advisable to use additional contraceptive methods while taking Omadacycline and consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider for follow-up evaluations and monitoring of your condition.
• Allergies and adverse reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat, seek immediate medical attention.

It’s essential to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for any specific instructions, warnings, or additional information related to the use of Omadacycline, as individual circumstances may vary.