Vibramycin

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Kenny Cheuk Yin Cheung, Pharmacist

Last updated on 03/12/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Doxycycline

CHINESE NAME: Vibramycin

DRUG CLASS: Antibiotics

SUB CLASS: Tetracyclines

USED FOR: Acne, pelvic inflammatory disease, traveller’s diarrhea and other bacterial infections, syphilis

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS:
– 100mg (tablets)

What is Vibramycin for?

Vibramycin is a brand medication that contains Doxycycline, which belongs to a class of medications called Tetracyclines. It works by disrupting the protein synthesis of bacteria to inhibit bacterial growth. It is used for many bacterial infections like acne, pelvic inflammatory disease, traveller’s diarrhoea and many more.

How to use it?

Vibramycin is available as oral tablets. It can be taken with or after food if you experience any stomach discomfort.

For susceptible infections
Adult / Child (body weight ≥45 kg)
200 mg as a single dose OR in 2 divided doses every 12 hours on the first day, then 100 mg once daily; For severe infections, take 200 mg daily.

Child (body weight <45 kg)
4.4 mg/kg in 2 divided doses on the first day then 2.2 mg/kg; For severe infections, take 2.2 mg/kg every 12 hour.

Syphilis
Adult
Take 300 mg daily in divided doses for at least 10 days.

Prevention of traveller’s diarrhoea
Adult
Take 200 mg as a single dose or in 2 divided doses on the first day of travel, then 100 mg once daily throughout your trip.

What are the side effects of Vibramycin?

Common side effects of Vibramycin include diarrhoea, headache, nausea and vomiting, and increased sensitivity to light.

Who should not take Vibramycin?

– People who are allergic to any component of Vibramycin
– Pregnant or breastfeeding women and those who intend to become pregnant

Pharmacist Tips:

– Your skin may become sensitive to sunlight after taking Vibramycin. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet light. Apply sunscreen as needed.
– If you take Magnesium, Calcium or Iron containing products like antacids and milk, take at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking Vibramycin.

Common dosing schedule:
Take Vibramycin with or after a meal to reduce stomach upset. Avoid taking it after a large meal.

This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications Vibramycin may interact with:
– Antacids
– Carbamazepine
– Isotretinoin

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Vibramycin in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Vibramycin is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Vibramycin in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.