Oracea

The active ingredient in Oracea is doxycycline. Doxycycline belongs to a class of antibiotics known as tetracyclines. Although it is unknown how exactly its antibacterial properties target the inflammatory lesions seen in rosacea, clinical studies demonstrate improvement in symptoms over time with regular use.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Oracea. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Oracea:

• Oracea should be used exactly as prescribed.
• It is typically taken on an empty stomach once daily, either an hour before or two hours after a meal. Ensure to take with a full glass of water to lower the risk of esophageal irritation or ulcers.
• Oracea can increase your photosensitivity and therefore the risk of a sunburn. While using Oracea, make sure to use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use double doses to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Oracea seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Cold or flu-like symptoms, including nasopharyngitis
• Sinus infection (sinusitis)
• Stomach or abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• High blood pressure or hypertension
• Changes in certain blood tests

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Oracea. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Permanent teeth discoloration, especially in babies or children who are still going through tooth development.
• Hyperpigmentation of the skin, pre-existing scars, teeth, gum, nails, or whites of your eyes
• Signs of an intestinal infection due to overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria such as diarrhea or bloody stools.
• Signs of an adverse immune reaction such as joint pain, fever, rash, or body weakness. These could be signs of conditions like hepatitis, lupus-like syndrome, or vasculitis.
• Signs of benign intracranial hypertension (pseudotumor cerebri) such as blurred vision, vision loss, or unusual headaches.
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, rash, blistering of the skin, or swelling of the face, tongue, or eyes.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Oracea. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Oracea, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Kidney problems
• Liver problems
• Diarrhea or watery stools
• Vision problems
• Stomach surgery
• Yeast or fungal infection in the mouth or vagina
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Do not use Oracea if you have an allergy or hypersensitivity to doxycycline, other tetracyclines, or any of the inactive ingredients in Oracea.

It can take several weeks of regular use to see the full benefits of Oracea.

When Oracea is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Anticoagulants or blood thinners
• Penicillin
• Methoxyflurane
• Oral retinoids such as isotretinoin and acitretin
• Barbiturates
• Carbamazepine
• Phenytoin
• Antacids such as bismuth subsalicylate, proton pump inhibitors, or those with aluminum, calcium, or magnesium
• Iron-containing preparations

Oracea is available as a single dosage form, which is 40 mg capsules. Of the total medication, 30 mg is immediate release or fast acting, while 10 mg is delayed release or longer acting.

Oracea capsules should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Oracea is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Galderma Laboratories.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Oracea.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Oracea.

Oracea may cause harm to the unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. If you become pregnant, stop taking Oracea and call your doctor right away. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Oracea is likely to be present in the breast milk, and women should not breastfeed while taking Oracea or for 5 days after stopping use. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.