Atridox

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

DOXYCYCLINE GEL - DENTAL

(dox-ee-SYE-kleen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Atridox

USES: This medication is used to treat adult gum disease (periodontitis). Doxycycline belongs to a class of drugs known as tetracycline antibiotics. When applied to the infected tooth pockets, this medication works by preventing the growth of bacteria. This medication is a gel that your dental professional places into the infected tooth pocket. It becomes wax-like when it comes in contact with saliva. Doxycycline is then slowly released from the hardened gel over the next 7 days.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using doxycycline gel. If you have any questions, talk to your dentist or pharmacist.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

The dental professional will prepare each dose before placing this product into the infected tooth pocket(s).

After this medication is placed in your tooth pocket(s), do not brush or floss around the treated teeth for 7 days. Avoid using the treated teeth to chew, and do not eat hard, crunchy, or chewy foods for at least 7 days. Your dentist may prescribe a dental rinse to be used during the time you should avoid brushing and flossing. Follow your dentist's directions carefully.

Do not worry if you see bits of this product come out of the treated tooth pockets. This product is harmless if swallowed.

Your dental professional may apply a second treatment with this product after 4 months. Keep all of your dental appointments while using this medication.

Tell your dentist if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Gum discomfort/pain/soreness or toothache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your dentist or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your dentist has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your dentist immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: tooth loosening, jaw pain, sunburn.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Read the Atridox (doxycycline hyclate) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects

PRECAUTIONS: Before using doxycycline gel, tell your dentist or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other tetracyclines; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your dentist or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: past/current fungal infections of mouth/vagina (e.g., thrush, yeast infection).

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

Children younger than 8 years may be more sensitive to the side effects of doxycycline, especially tooth discoloration. Tooth discoloration has also occurred in older children and young adults. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with the doctor.

This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your dentist before using this medication.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your dentist or doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your dentist or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your dentist, medical doctor, or pharmacist first.

Before using this medication, tell your dentist or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use.

Although most antibiotics probably do not affect hormonal birth control such as pills, patch, or ring, some antibiotics may decrease their effectiveness. This could cause pregnancy. Examples include rifamycins such as rifampin or rifabutin. Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist if you should use additional reliable birth control methods while using this antibiotic.

This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

NOTES: Proper dental hygiene (including tooth brushing and flossing) on a daily basis and having regular visits to your dentist may help to prevent tooth and gum problems. Discuss this with your dental professional.

MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator between 36-86 degrees F (2-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Keep this medication in the protective pouches before use. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Information last revised April 2013. Copyright(c) 2013 First Databank, Inc.