Doxycycline

Common Brand Names

Doxy, Vibramycin, Doxacil, Doxywell, Doxy-Denk

Overview

Doxycycline is an antibiotic that's used to treat infections including:

• chest and dental infections
• skin infections and conditions like rosacea
• sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• other rare infections

It can also be used to prevent malaria if you're travelling abroad.

Doxycycline is available on prescription in some countries.

Important Facts

• For most infections, you'll start to feel better in a few days, but it's important to finish the course of medicine.
• Doxycycline works more slowly to treat the condition rosacea. A doctor can review it after about 4 weeks to check how well it's working.
• The most common side effects of doxycycline are headaches, feeling sick or being sick. It can also make your skin sensitive to the sun.
• It's best not to drink alcohol while taking doxycycline because it can stop it working properly.

• Doxycycline can sometimes cause thrush. If this happens, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
• Carry on taking this medicine until you've finished the course, even if you feel better. If you stop your treatment early, the infection could come back.