Doxycycline is effective against many infections, including lung infections like pneumonia, respiratory tract infections such as tonsillitis and sinusitis, urinary tract infections like cystitis and urethritis, and skin infections like impetigo and cellulitis. It also helps treat eye infections, gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria or parasites, and certain sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea and chlamydia. Additionally, doxycycline is used to prevent and treat malaria, especially in areas where the disease is resistant to other medicines. It is also used for severe acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments and in some other specific infections like typhus or Lyme disease.
How to take
The treatment duration varies depending on the infection but often lasts from a few days to several weeks.
Follow the instructions given by your doctor.
Important precautions:
- Doxycycline should not be used in pregnant women because it can harm the developing baby’s teeth and bones.
- It should also be avoided in breastfeeding mothers, as it passes into breast milk.
- Taking it with certain foods or antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or iron can reduce its effectiveness, so it’s best to take it at least 2-3 hours apart from such products.
- Doxycycline can cause sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn, so wearing protective clothing or sunscreen is recommended during treatment.
Possible side effects:
- Mild stomach upset like nausea or diarrhea.
- Sensitivity to sunlight, which can cause sunburn.
- Rarely, allergic reactions such as rash or swelling.
- Long-term use or high doses can cause teeth discoloration in children and affect bone development.
- In some cases, overgrowth of resistant bacteria can lead to oral or vaginal thrush.
