Difference between Doxycycline Monohydrate and Hyclate

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There are a number of drugs that are almost similar in function and are hence used alternatively to treat the same disease. Doxycycline Monohydrate and Doxycycline Hyclate are two such drugs.

Though very similar in function, there a few differences between these drugs.

1. Generic names of the drugs.
The generic names of the two drugs are Doxycycline Monohydrate and Doxycycline Hyclate respectively.

2. Available brand names and manufacturers of drugs.

Doxycycline Hyclate is available in the market under the brand names of Acticlate, Monodox, VIbra-Tabs and Vibramycin.
Doxycycline Monohydrate is available in the market under the brand names of Adoxa and Monodox.

3. What are the 2 drugs commonly used for?
Both Doxycycline Monohydrate and Doxycycline Hyclate are used to treat bacterial diseases. They are thus classified as anti-bacterial drugs. These medicines are administered to treat skin problems such as acne. In addition, Doxycycline Monohydrate in combination with other medicines may also be used to treat amoebic diseases.
The two drugs work by slowing down the rate of bacterial growth. When growth rate of bacteria is slowed down, it allows the immune system of the body to attack and destroy them thus overcoming the disease.

4. Side effects that may occur due to the drugs.
Side effects of Doxycycline Hyclate: The common side effects that can be observed on taking Doxycycline Hyclate include stomach upset, nausea and vomiting. The drug may sometimes also cause increased sensitivity resulting in sunburns. Sometimes, the intracranial pressure inside the skull may increase. This condition is called intracranial Hypertension and mostly occurs in overweight patients and those who have previous history of Intracranial Hypertension.

Side effects of Doxycycline Monohydrate: Apart from the common side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, increased sensitivity and vomiting, taking Doxycycline Monohydrate may also result in severe allergic reactions. Swelling of the mouth, cramps, yellowing of eyes and vision changes are also commonly observed.

The above mentioned side effects are the most frequently occurring side effects. The response to medication may vary from person to person and it is thus always necessary to seek medical advice from your doctor.

5. Dosage of drugs.
The dosage of drugs to be administered is generally decided by the doctor based on patient history and the extent of the disease that the patient is affected by. The usual dose prescribed for both drugs is about 50 to 200 mg. However, the dose may vary depending on the disease to be treated.

6. Overdose on drugs.
An overdose or over consumption of either drug from the prescribed amount can prove to be extremely harmful. In case of an overdose, the poison control centre must be contacted immediately and the patient must be hospitalized as soon as possible.

7. Drug Interactions.
The interactions of the drugs change with their use and disease.
Drugs that interact with Doxycycline Hyclate: A few drugs that interact with Doxycycline Hyclate include Barbiturates, Anti-sezure medicines, retinoid medicines, blood thinners and penicillin.
Drugs that interact with Doxycycline monohydrate: There are about 347 drugs that interact with Doxycycline Monohydrate.

8. Drug action in the body.
Doxycycline Monohydrate has less harsh drug action inside the body when compared to Doxycycline Hyclate. It can be taken in an empty stomach with a lot of water and does not cause heart burns.

9. How are the drugs taken?
Doxycycline Hyclate: Doxycycline Hyclate can be taken as a pill, an injection or as a dental product.
Doxycycline Monohydrate: Doxycycline Monohydrate can be taken as a pill, an injection or as a dental product.

10. Obtaining the drugs.
Both drugs are extremely potent and can thus only be obtained with a proper prescription from the doctor.

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