Doxycycline

Doxycycline is an antibiotic that is often prescribed to treat dry eye problems. Unlike most other antibiotics, Doxycycline has anti-inflammatory characteristics. Due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics and its ability to improve oil gland function, it is the most effective medication available for the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction. Meibomian glands produce the oil layer of the tear film and help prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. Even at that, Doxycycline is not fast acting. It often time takes months before the glands are once again functioning normally.

Usually when a person starts taking Doxycycline they begin the first week with what we call a loading dose. That means the pills are taken twice daily instead of once daily for the first week. When two pills a day are taken, it is best to take them at the breakfast and dinner time. After the first week, only one pill a day is needed and it really does not matter when the pill is taken as long as it is taken with food..

Doxycycline can cause stomach upset with some people. To help prevent that from occurring, it should always be taken with food. However, dairy products and calcium can inactivate Doxycycline so it is important that no cheese, milk, yogurt, ice cream, or calcium supplements are taken at the same time. A two hour interval needs to separate Doxycycline from those items.

It is not a good idea to take Doxycycline right before a person goes to bed. Heart burn can occur if the pill is taken closer than one hour to bedtime or a nap.

As with any medication, some people will not tolerate the medication even though they are careful in following the instructions provided. If this occurs, discontinue taking Doxycycline and call McCalla Eyecare Center to discuss alternate approaches to your eye therapy.