Page Contents
WHAT IS IT?
Doxycycline is an antibiotic that belongs to a class of medications called tetracyclines. These medications inhibit translation.
WHEN DO WE USE IT?
Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi), Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, pulmonary anthrax (Bacillus anthraces), Pasteurella multocida, syphilis (Treponema pallidum) Rickettsial diseases and vector-borne illness, acne
Prophylaxis for Leptospira interrogans
WHEN DO WE AVOID USING IT?
Pregnancy (this medication is contraindicated)
Children younger then 8 years: it is believed that this medication causes the staining of permanent teeth in this age group.
When patient is taking divalent ions concurrently PO: milk (Ca2+), antacids (Ca2+ or Mg2+), or iron-containing preparations should be avoided when taking this medication because divalent cations inhibit drugs’ absorption in the gut.
HOW IS IT ADMINISTERED?
Oral administration or IV infusion
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS/TOXICITY?
GI distress, discoloration of teeth, inhibition of bone growth in children, photosensitivity.
Fanconi syndrome can be caused with expired drugs
ANYTHING ELSE TO KEEP IN MIND?
This drug’s ability to accumulate intracellularly makes it very effective against Rickettsia and Chlamydia.
Drug resistance can occur when bacteria acquire plasmids that decrease the uptake or increase to efflux of this medication.
FURTHER READING
Page Updated: 06.10.2016