According to Drugs.com, doxycycline is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, acne and periodontitis (gum disease). It belongs to a family of medications referred to as tetracycline antibiotics, and although many people tolerate this medication well, some experience the side effects that accompany it.
Common Side Effects
According to eMedTV.com, the most common side effects associated with doxycycline include nausea, indigestion, heartburn, photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight), diarrhea, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Serious Side Effects
Although the serious side effects do not occur frequently, they pose a health risk for those who experience them, and it is recommended that you report them immediately to your doctor. They include but are not limited to difficulty swallowing, a sore throat, severe stomach cramps, headaches, joint pain, being tired, diarrhea, bloody stools, blurred vision and fever.
Rare Side Effects
According to eMedTV.com, these side effects tend to occur in less than 1 percent of those taking doxycycline. They include but are not limited to liver damage, irritation of your esophagus, intracranial hypertension (increased pressure in your skull), reduced blood platelet levels, enterocolitis (infection of your intestines), changes in vision, the formation of ulcers in your esophagus, swelling of your tongue and the development of a vaginal yeast infection.
Signs of Overdose
Although doxycycline is an antibiotic, it is still possible to take too much and overdose. Signs of this include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. If these occur, contact your doctor right away.
Signs of Allergic Reaction
In some cases, those prescribed this medication find they are allergic to it. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, the appearance of an unexplained rash, the onset of hives, the tightening of your chest and the swelling of your lips, face, throat and tongue.
