Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is doxycycline hyclate delayed-release. It is an antibiotic. It treats infections caused by bacteria. It cannot treat infections caused by viruses, like the common cold. Doxycycline may also help protect travelers from malaria. 

You should take doxycycline EXACTLY as YOUR doctor tells you to. You should take your dose with a full glass of water, and swallow the tablet whole. You should not lie down for at least 30 minutes after the dose. This will help protect your throat from irritation. 

Most people tolerate this medicine well. Some people may have nausea or an upset stomach. If this happens, taking it with a small meal might help. Women could get a vaginal yeast infection. If this occurs, you should obtain treatment. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

Doxycycline can make your skin sensitive to sunlight. You should protect your skin with sunscreen and limit your time in the sun.

As with any antibiotic, diarrhea can occur. You should call your doctor if diarrhea is severe, if it lasts for more than 2 days, or if it contains blood. 

This medicine is not safe for unborn babies, so women who are pregnant should not take it. Also, it is generally not recommended for children younger than 9 years of age.

Drug interactions can occur. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take other medicines, including antacids, birth control pills and blood thinners.

For best results with doxycycline, be sure to finish the full course of treatment. Also, tell your doctor if your condition does not improve in a few days, or if it gets worse instead of better.