Indications 

Oracea is a prescribed medication used to treat inflammatory lesions (such as papules and pustules) associated with rosacea in adults. 

Classified as a tetracycline antibiotic, Oracea’s mechanism of action does not involve inhibiting bacterial growth. Instead, it effectively addresses rosacea by reducing the inflammation responsible for the condition.  

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Oracea and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. 

Typically, Oracea is taken once daily in the morning on an empty stomach, ideally at least an hour before or two hours after eating. 

Ingest the capsule with a full glass of water without crushing or chewing to avoid potential side effects from the sudden release of the medication. 

For optimal results, take this medication exactly as directed. Avoid taking more or less of it or using it more frequently than prescribed by your doctor. 

Oracea has a distinct dosage from doxycycline for infections. Overdosing can lead to higher side effects and the emergence of resistant microorganisms. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Oracea. If any of them persist or worsen, inform your doctor right away. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, loss of appetite 
• Mild diarrhea 
• Skin rash or itching 
• Darkened skin color 
• Vaginal itching or discharge 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe stomach pain, watery or bloody diarrhea 
• Throat irritation, difficulty swallowing 
• Chest pain, irregular heart rhythm, shortness of breath 
• Reduced or no urination 
• Low white blood cell counts: 
  • Fever 
  • Chills 
  • Swollen glands 
  • Body aches 
  • Weakness 
  • Pale skin 
  • Easy bruising or bleeding 
• Increased pressure inside the skull: 
  • Severe headaches 
  • Ringing in the ears 
  • Dizziness 
  • Nausea 
  • Vision problems 
  • Pain behind the eyes 
• Indications of liver or pancreas issues: 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Upper stomach pain (possibly spreading to the back) 
  • Fatigue 
  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Rapid heart rate 
  • Dark urine 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

Call your doctor right away if any of the severe side effects above are experienced. 

A severe drug reaction impacting multiple body systems may occur several weeks after starting Oracea. Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following symptoms are observed:  

• Skin rash 
• Fever 
• Swollen glands 
• Flu-like symptoms 
• Muscle aches 
• Severe weakness 
• Unusual bruising 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 

A severe skin reaction may also occur; seek immediate medical assistance if you observe the following: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning in the eyes, 
• Skin pain 
• Skin rash (red or purple) that spreads and causes blistering and peeling 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Oracea may occur. Get immediate medical attention if you observe any of the following symptoms: 

• Hives 
• Breathing difficulty 
• Swelling (face, lips, tongue, or throat) 

Not all side effects of Oracea are included in this list. Tell your doctor promptly if any unlisted effects are observed. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Oracea, inform your doctor of any known allergies, particularly to: 

• Doxycycline 
• Tetracycline 
• Related drugs (e.g., minocycline) 
• Other drugs 
• Any of the components of Oracea modified-release hard capsule 

To ensure Oracea is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Difficulties with swallowing 
• Esophagus problems (e.g., hiatal hernia, reflux disease-GERD) 
• Stomach surgery (e.g., gastrectomy, gastric bypass surgery) 
• Lupus 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are currently taking or planning to take to reduce the risk of drug interaction with Oracea. 

Some of the products that may interact with Oracea include: 

• Oral retinoid medications (e.g., acitretin, isotretinoin) 
• Strontium 
• Anti-seizure medications (e.g., phenobarbital, phenytoin) 
• Digoxin 
• Warfarin 

For optimal absorption of Oracea, avoid taking it within 2-3 hours of consuming products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, or bismuth subsalicylate. These components can interact with doxycycline and hinder its absorption. Examples of such products include: 

• Antacids 
• Didanosine solution 
• Quinapril 
• Vitamin minerals 
• Dairy products (e.g., milk, yogurt) 
• Calcium-enriched juice  

Notify all medical professionals, including laboratory personnel, of your use of Oracea, as it may impact specific lab test outcomes. 

Inform your healthcare provider about the use of Oracea prior to any immunizations, as it may reduce the effectiveness of live bacterial vaccines like the typhoid vaccine. 

Minimize sun exposure and utilize protective measures such as clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen while taking Oracea due to its potential to increase skin sensitivity. Inform your physician immediately if you experience sunburn. 

Inform your physician of your pregnancy status or intentions. In the event of pregnancy while taking Oracea, promptly contact your doctor, as it may pose a risk to the developing fetus. 

Oracea can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Consult your doctor regarding alternative non-hormonal methods of contraception (such as condoms, diaphragms, or spermicides) to prevent pregnancy while using this medication. 

Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Oracea as doxycycline can transfer to breast milk and potentially impact a nursing infant’s bone and tooth development.