Doxycycline

Doxycycline is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) and Ureaplasma urealyticum.

Since becoming available worldwide in 1967, it is now prescribed for many different conditions, including bacterial infections, malaria, acne and rosacea.

Doxycyline works to treat STIs by killing the bacteria that is causing the infection. More specifically, it targets essential proteins that bacteria need to survive. This stops the bacteria from being able to reproduce and spread, which kills off the bacteria and treats the infection.

Studies show that Doxycycline is an effective treatment for STIs.

One study analysed the results of 12 different clinical trials which compared Azithromycin and Doxycycline treatment for chlamydia. They found that Doxycycline had a 98% cure rate overall, while Azithromycin had a cure rate of 97%.

A later clinical trial involving 567 patients also compared the effectiveness of Doxycycline and Azithromycin. They found that Doxycycline had a 100% cure rate of chlamydia, meaning there were no treatment failures. This was compared to Azithromycin, which had a cure rate of 97%.

Doxycycline takes 7 days to work to treat STIs like chlamydia. You must take it for the full 7 days, even if you start to feel better. This is to ensure that the infection is completely cleared.

Men and women can use Doxycycline if they have tested positive for chlamydia, non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) or Ureaplasma urealyticum.

You cannot take Doxycycline if you:

• are allergic to Doxycycline or any of the inactive ingredients
• are pregnant or breastfeeding

Talk to your doctor before using Doxycycline if you:

• have alcohol dependence
• have myasthenia gravis (a condition which causes muscle weakness)
• have systemic lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disease)
• have kidney or liver problems
• have porphyria (a rare blood condition)
• have oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus)
• are likely to be exposed to strong sunlight
• take any oral retinoids (e.g. Roaccutane or isotretinoin)

This is because you may be at an increased risk of side effects.

Doxycycline is available as 100 mg capsules. You must take one 100 mg capsule twice daily for 7 days to treat STIs. You should take one capsule in the morning and one in the evening.

Like all prescription medicines, Doxycycline may cause side effects. The most common side effects should go away on their own once your body gets used to the medicine.

Common side effects (up to 1 in 10 people):

• Feeling sick (nausea) - you can reduce nausea by eating little and often and prioritising bland foods like plain toast, rice or crackers.
• Diarrhoea or vomiting - make sure you stay hydrated to avoid dehydration and eat bland foods when you feel able.
• Headaches - drink plenty of water, avoid caffeine and try to keep a healthy sleep schedule.
• Sunburn - Doxycycline makes you more sensitive to the sun, so avoid going out in the sun where possible or wear SPF 50 at all times.

Speak to your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any persistent or serious side effects. If you experience any rare side effects such as fits or suicidal thoughts, seek emergency medical attention.

For a full list of side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet (PIL) which comes in the box with your medicine.

Avoid drinking alcohol while on Doxycycline. It can reduce the effectiveness of Doxycycline which may increase the risk of your infection not being treated.

Yes, Doxycycline is a safe and clinically-proven antibiotic treatment. But if you have another medical condition or take other medication, your doctor will need to ensure it’s safe for you. Our doctors will also know whether it’s safe for you based on your medical questionnaire during the ordering process.

No, Doxycycline is not available without a prescription. You need a valid prescription from a healthcare professional to purchase it. This ensures the medication is safe and suitable for your needs.