Drug Interaction Report

Using acitretin together with doxycycline is not recommended. Combining these medications may increase the risk of a rare, but potentially serious, condition called pseudotumor cerebri caused by increased pressure in the brain. In some cases, this can lead to permanent vision loss. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact. You should seek immediate medical attention if you develop early signs and symptoms of the condition such as headache, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances during treatment with either medication. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Switch to professional interaction data

Take acitretin with food. Women must avoid all drinks, food, and medicines (including over-the-counter products) that contain alcohol while taking acitretin or for 2 months after stopping treatment. Alcoholic beverages increase the risk for birth defects while taking acitretin. Acitretin can cause severe, life-threatening birth defects if the mother takes the medication during pregnancy. Never use acitretin if you are pregnant. Both a primary and a secondary form of birth control must be used together and for at least 3 years after stopping therapy. Talk with your doctor about other possible birth control methods while you are taking acitretin. It is important that you tell your healthcare provider about all other medications that you are using including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using your medications without first talking to your doctor.

Switch to professional interaction data

Iron can bind to doxycycline in the gastrointestinal tract, which may prevent their absorption into the bloodstream and possibly reduce their effectiveness. To avoid or minimize the interaction, iron-containing medications and doxycycline should preferably be taken at least three to four hours apart in most cases. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns, or if you have trouble separating the dosing times. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Switch to professional interaction data

Information for this minor interaction is available on the professional version.