About doxycycline hyclate
Tetracycline antibiotic
Used for
- Treats certain bacterial infections, including severe infections when oral treatment is unsuitable.
- Used for selected infections such as rickettsial disease, chlamydia, and Lyme disease.
Usual adult dose
Usually 100 mg intravenously every 12 hours; dose and duration depend on infection.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 8 years and older, typically 2.2 mg/kg intravenously every 12 hours, up to adult dosing.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Pain or inflammation at the injection site
- Sun sensitivity
- Rare allergic reactions or severe skin reactions
Important warnings
- Does not treat viral infections; unnecessary use promotes antibiotic resistance.
- Can cause tooth discoloration and affect bone growth; generally avoided in children under 8 except specific serious infections.
- May cause severe diarrhea, including after treatment ends.
- Use caution with liver disease and follow product-specific instructions for intravenous preparation.
Pregnancy
Generally avoided, particularly after the first trimester, because of potential effects on fetal teeth and bones; use only when clearly needed.
Breastfeeding
May be used for short courses when necessary; prolonged or repeated treatment is generally avoided.
Interactions
- Antacids and supplements containing iron, calcium, magnesium, or zinc can reduce absorption of oral doxycycline.
- Warfarin effects may increase.
- May reduce effectiveness of some live oral vaccines.
- Use with isotretinoin may increase risk of raised pressure inside the skull.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.