Why is this medication prescribed?

Periostat is a brand name for the drug doxycycline, which is a tetracycline antibiotic. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of periodontitis, which is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Periostat is Prescribed for:

• Periodontitis Treatment: Periostat is specifically prescribed to manage periodontitis, a form of advanced gum disease characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums, as well as damage to the surrounding bone.
• Inhibition of Enzymes: The active ingredient in Periostat, doxycycline, works by inhibiting certain enzymes that contribute to the breakdown of bone and connective tissue in the gums.

How should this medicine be used?

The dosing and usage instructions for Periostat (doxycycline hyclate) can vary based on the specific condition being treated and individual patient factors. It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the information provided on the prescription label. The following general guidelines may be applicable, but you should consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice:

• Dosage: The typical dosage of Periostat for the treatment of periodontitis is often 20 mg twice daily. However, your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your specific needs and response to the medication.
• Administration: Periostat is usually taken orally with a full glass of water. It’s often recommended to take it on an empty stomach, either one hour before or two hours after meals. If stomach upset occurs, taking the medication with food or milk may help alleviate this side effect.
• Consistency: Try to take Periostat at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level of the drug in your bloodstream.
• Duration of Treatment: The duration of Periostat treatment can vary. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on how long you should take the medication. It’s important to complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
• Avoidance of Certain Substances: Doxycycline can interact with certain substances, such as dairy products, antacids, and iron supplements, reducing its absorption. It’s generally recommended to avoid taking these substances within 2 hours before or after taking Periostat. However, follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding specific dietary restrictions.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments with your dentist or healthcare provider are important during and after Periostat treatment to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan if needed.

It’s important to note that this information is general and may not cover all possible scenarios. Always follow the specific instructions given by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Periostat, consult with your healthcare professional or pharmacist for personalized guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Periostat is primarily used to treat periodontitis, but it may also be prescribed for other conditions, such as:

• Acne: Tetracyclines, including doxycycline, are sometimes used to treat acne.
• Rosacea: Doxycycline may be prescribed for the management of rosacea, a skin condition.
• Lyme Disease: In certain cases, doxycycline is used to treat Lyme disease, especially in its early stages.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Periostat:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to any tetracycline antibiotics or any other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Tetracycline antibiotics, including doxycycline, may affect fetal bone development and tooth discoloration.
• Children: Tetracyclines are generally not prescribed for children under the age of 8, as they can affect developing teeth and bones.
• Liver or Kidney Issues: If you have liver or kidney problems, your doctor may need to adjust the dosage or choose an alternative treatment.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as doxycycline can interact with certain drugs.
• Antacids and Dairy Products: Avoid taking antacids, calcium supplements, and dairy products within 2 hours before or after taking doxycycline, as they can interfere with its absorption.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and instructions for the proper use of Periostat and be aware of potential side effects and interactions. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare professional promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

While taking Periostat, you should be aware of certain dietary considerations:

• Avoidance of Certain Foods: Some foods and beverages can interfere with the absorption of doxycycline. Avoid taking Periostat with foods high in calcium, iron, magnesium, or aluminum, as well as dairy products.
• Take with Water: Periostat should be taken with a full glass of water to help prevent irritation of the esophagus and to ensure proper absorption.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Periostat, follow these general guidelines:

• If it’s almost time for your next dose: Skip the missed dose and take the next one at the regularly scheduled time.
• If you remember within a few hours: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed one.
• If you miss a dose and it’s close to the next scheduled dose: Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one. Taking extra medication may increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Periostat (doxycycline hyclate) can cause side effects, and it’s important to be aware of them. Keep in mind that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may experience side effects that are not listed. If you are prescribed Periostat, your healthcare provider will weigh the potential benefits against the risks and monitor you for any adverse reactions. Common side effects of Periostat may include:

• Gastrointestinal Effects:
  • Upset stomach
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
• Esophageal Irritation: Taking Periostat with a full glass of water and avoiding lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking it can help minimize the risk of irritation to the esophagus.
• Photosensitivity: Increased sensitivity to sunlight, which may result in sunburn more easily than usual. It is advisable to use sunscreen and protective clothing while exposed to sunlight.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions are possible, though they are relatively rare. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Pseudomembranous Colitis: A severe form of diarrhea associated with the overgrowth of a bacterium called Clostridium difficile. If you experience persistent or severe diarrhea, contact your healthcare provider.
• Hepatotoxicity: In rare cases, doxycycline can affect the liver. If you experience symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent nausea, contact your healthcare provider.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions.

It’s important to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking, as drug interactions can occur.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual responses to medications can vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, and if you have concerns about side effects or the use of Periostat, consult with your healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

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

Storage and Disposal of Periostat:

• Storage:
  • Store Periostat at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
  • Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
  • Do not store Periostat in the bathroom, as moisture can affect its stability.
• Disposal:
  • Follow your healthcare provider’s or pharmacist’s instructions on how to dispose of unused or expired medication.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may schedule regular check-ups to monitor your response to Periostat and to check for any potential side effects.
• Complete the Course: It’s important to complete the full course of Periostat as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
• Follow Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Follow all instructions given by your healthcare provider, including dosing, dietary recommendations, and any additional precautions.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Dental Care: Continue practicing good oral hygiene and follow any additional recommendations from your dentist for the management of periodontitis.
• Follow-up: Attend all follow-up appointments scheduled by your healthcare provider to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you become pregnant or are breastfeeding while taking Periostat, inform your healthcare provider. The decision to continue or discontinue the medication will be based on a risk-benefit assessment.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific guidance based on your individual health status and the details of your prescription. If you have any concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare professional for clarification and advice.