Doxycycline

Pharmacologic Category

Antibiotic, Tetracycline Derivative

Dosing: Adult

Note: Doxycycline is available as hyclate, monohydrate, and calcium salts. All doses are expressed as doxycycline base.

Usual dosage range:

Oral: IR and most ER formulations: 100 to 200 mg/day in 1 to 2 divided doses. Note: 120 mg of modified polymer coated tablet (Doryx MPC) is equivalent to 100 mg conventional delayed-release tablet.

IV: 100 mg every 12 hours. Note: IV form may cause phlebitis.

Acne vulgaris (moderate to severe, inflammatory) (off-label dose): Oral: Note: Use as an adjunct to topical acne therapy (AAD [Zaenglein 2016]).

Immediate release: 50 to 100 mg twice daily or 100 mg once daily (AAD [Zaenglein 2016]; Graber 2020).

Extended release: 100 mg twice daily on day 1, then 100 mg once daily (AAD [Zaenglein 2016]; Graber 2020).

Subantimicrobial dosing: 20 mg twice daily (immediate release) or 40 mg once daily (delayed release) (Moore 2015; Skidmore 2003).

Duration: Use the shortest possible duration to minimize risk of adverse effects and development of bacterial resistance; re-evaluate at 3 to 4 months (AAD [Zaenglein 2016]).

Actinomycosis (alternative agent): Oral, IV: 100 mg every 12 hours (Brook 2020; Cone 2003; Olson 2013). Duration of therapy is 2 to 6 months for mild infection and 6 to 12 months (including 4 to 6 weeks of parenteral therapy) for severe or extensive infection (Brook 2020).

Anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis (off-label use): Oral, IV: 100 mg twice daily for 10 days (IDSA [Wormser 2006]) or at least 3 days after resolution of fever (CDC [Biggs 2016]).

Anthrax: Note: Consult public health officials for event-specific recommendations.

Inhalational exposure (postexposure prophylaxis [PEP]): Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours for 42 to 60 days (CDC [Hendricks 2014]).

Note: Anthrax vaccine should also be administered to exposed individuals (CDC [Bower 2019]; CDC [Hendricks 2014]). Duration of therapy: If the PEP anthrax vaccine series is administered on schedule (for all regimens), antibiotics may be discontinued in immunocompetent adults aged 18 to 65 years at 42 days after initiation of vaccine or 2 weeks after the last dose of the vaccine (whichever comes last and not to exceed 60 days); if the vaccination series cannot be completed, antibiotics should continue for 60 days (CDC [Bower 2019]). In addition, adults with immunocompromising conditions or receiving immunosuppressive therapy, patients >65 years of age, and patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should receive antibiotics for 60 days (CDC [Bower 2019]).

Cutaneous (without systemic involvement), treatment: Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours for 7 to 10 days after naturally acquired infection; treat for 60 days for bioterrorism-related cases (CDC [Hendricks 2014]). Note: Patients with cutaneous lesions of the head or neck or extensive edema should be treated for systemic involvement.

Systemic (meningitis excluded; alternative agent), treatment: IV: Initial: 200 mg as a single dose, then 100 mg every 12 hours, in combination with a bactericidal agent; treat for 2 weeks or until clinically stable, whichever is longer. Note: Antitoxin should also be administered for systemic anthrax. Following a course of IV combination therapy, patients exposed to aerosolized spores require oral doxycycline monotherapy to complete an antimicrobial course of 60 days (CDC [Hendricks 2014]).

Bartonella spp. infection:

HIV-infected: Note: Duration of therapy is at least 3 months; continuation of therapy depends on relapse occurrence and clinical condition (HHS [OI adult 2020]).

Bacillary angiomatosis, peliosis hepatis, bacteremia, and osteomyelitis: Oral, IV: 100 mg every 12 hours (HHS [OI adult 2020]). Note: Some experts recommend concomitant gentamicin for the first 2 weeks of therapy for patients with Bartonella bloodstream infection (Rolain 2004; Spach 2019a).

CNS infections: Oral, IV: 100 mg every 12 hours; may add rifampin therapy (HHS [OI adult 2020]).

Endocarditis: Oral, IV: 100 mg IV every 12 hours in combination with gentamicin for 2 weeks, then continue with doxycycline 100 mg IV or orally every 12 hours (HHS [OI adult 2020]).

Other severe infections: Oral, IV: 100 mg every 12 hours in combination with rifampin (HHS [OI adult 2020]).

HIV-uninfected:

Bacteremia without endocarditis: Oral: 200 mg once daily or 100 mg twice daily for 4 weeks with gentamicin once daily for first 2 weeks (Foucault 2003; Rolain 2004).

Cat-scratch disease, CNS infection, and neuroretinitis: Oral, IV: 100 mg twice daily in combination with rifampin (Rolain 2004).

Endocarditis: Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours for 6 to 12 weeks with gentamicin for first 2 weeks (Rolain 2004; Spach 2019b).

Bite wound infection, prophylaxis or treatment (animal or human bite) (alternative agent) (off-label use): Oral, IV: 100 mg twice daily. Duration is 3 to 5 days for prophylaxis (IDSA [Stevens 2014]); duration of treatment for established infection is typically 5 to 14 days (Baddour 2019a; Baddour 2019b). Note: Some experts use in combination with an appropriate agent for anaerobes (Baddour 2019a; Baddour 2019b; IDSA [Stevens 2014]).

Brucellosis:

Treatment:

Endocarditis or neurobrucellosis: Limited data available: IV, Oral: 100 mg twice daily for at least 12 weeks (may be needed for up to 6 months); use as part of an appropriate combination regimen (Bosilkovski 2019; Jia 2017; Zheng 2018).

Uncomplicated (nonfocal): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 6 weeks as part of an appropriate combination regimen (Ariza 2007; Hasanjani Roushan 2006; Skalsky 2008).

Spondylitis: Oral: 100 mg twice daily for at least 12 weeks as part of an appropriate combination regimen (Bosilkovski 2019; Colmenero 1994).

Postexposure prophylaxis (high-risk laboratory exposure): Oral: 100 mg twice daily with rifampin for 3 weeks (CDC 2012); for exposure to B. abortus RB51 strains, some experts give doxycycline plus trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bosilkovski 2019).

Cellulitis, mild to moderate (outpatient treatment; empiric coverage of MRSA) (off-label use): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 5 to 14 days (IDSA [Liu 2011]; IDSA [Stevens 2014]). Note: For empiric therapy of nonpurulent cellulitis, an additional agent (eg, amoxicillin, cephalexin) for coverage of beta-hemolytic streptococci is needed.

Cholera (Vibrio cholerae), treatment (adjunctive therapy for severely ill patients): Oral: 300 mg as a single dose. Note: Due to resistance concerns, antimicrobial therapy during an outbreak or epidemic should be guided by isolate susceptibility (CDC 2015; WHO 2010).

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute exacerbation: Oral: 200 mg once daily for 5 to 7 days (Daniels 2010; GOLD 2020). Note: Some experts reserve for patients with uncomplicated COPD (eg, age <65 years without major comorbidities, FEV1 >50% predicted, infrequent exacerbations) (Anzueto 2007; Sethi 2008).

Hidradenitis suppurativa (off-label use): Oral: 100 mg once or twice daily (Ingram 2020; Vural 2019).

Lyme disease (Borrelia spp. infection) (off-label use):

Prophylaxis: Oral: 200 mg as a single dose. Note: Prophylaxis is used only in patients who meet all of the following criteria: Deer tick attached for ≥36 hours, prophylaxis can be given within 72 hours of tick removal, local rate of deer tick infection with Borrelia burgdorferi is ≥20%, and there are no contraindications to doxycycline (Hu 2017; IDSA [Wormser 2006]).

Treatment, early localized disease (single erythema migrans lesion): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 10 to 21 days (IDSA [Wormser 2006]); some experts prefer a 10-day duration (Sanchez 2016; Wormser 2003).

Treatment, early disseminated disease (multiple erythema migrans lesions): Oral:100 mg twice daily for 14 to 21 days (Hu 2019).

Treatment, early disseminated neurologic disease (isolated facial nerve palsy, meningitis, or radiculoneuropathy): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 14 days (range: 14 to 28 days) (Hu 2019; IDSA [Wormser 2006]).

Treatment, early disseminated carditis (initial therapy for mild disease [first-degree atrioventricular block with PR interval <300 msec] or step-down therapy after initial parenteral treatment for more severe disease once PR interval <300 msec): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 14 to 21 days (IDSA [Wormser 2006], although some experts extend the duration up to 28 days in those with serious disease (Hu 2019).

Treatment, arthritis without neurologic involvement: Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 28 days (IDSA [Wormser 2006]).

Malaria:

Prophylaxis: Oral (immediate release and delayed release): 100 mg daily; initiate 1 to 2 days prior to travel to endemic area; continue daily during travel and for 4 weeks after leaving endemic area.

Treatment (alternative agent) (off-label use): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 7 days in combination with quinine sulfate (quinine sulfate duration is region specific). Note: If used for P. vivax or P. ovale, use in combination with primaquine. If used for severe malaria (after completion of IV therapy), use full 7-day schedule of doxycycline (CDC 2020).

Otitis media, acute (alternative agent if unable to tolerate penicillins and cephalosporins) (off-label use): Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours; duration of therapy is 5 to 7 days (mild to moderate infection) or 10 days (severe infection) (Limb 2019).

Periodontitis, chronic: Subantimicrobial dosing: Oral: 20 mg twice daily (immediate release) for 3 to 9 months as an adjunct to periodontal debridement (Smiley 2015).

Plague (Yersinia pestis) (alternative agent): Oral, IV: 200 mg initially then 100 mg twice daily or 200 mg once daily for 10 to 14 days and at least until 2 days after patient has defervesced (CDC 2015; IDSA [Stevens 2014]; Inglesby 2000; Sexton 2019a).

Pleurodesis, chemical (sclerosing agent for pleural effusion) (off-label use): Intrapleural: 500 mg as a single dose in 30 to 100 mL NS (Porcel 2006; Robinson 1993); may require a repeat dose (Kvale 2007); some experts combine with or administer following instillation of a local anesthetic (eg, lidocaine, 10 mL [100 mg] of 1% solution [Robinson 1993] or mepivacaine 20 mL [400 mg] of 2% solution [Porcel 2006]).

Pneumonia, community-acquired, empiric therapy:

Outpatients with no risk factors for antibiotic resistant pathogens: Oral: 100 mg twice daily; must be used as part of an appropriate combination regimen in outpatients with comorbidities (ATS/IDSA [Metlay 2019]). Some experts prefer to use as part of an appropriate combination regimen in all outpatients, regardless of comorbidities (File 2019).

Inpatients (alternative agent): Oral, IV: 100 mg twice daily as part of an appropriate combination regimen (ATS/IDSA [Metlay 2019]).

Duration: Minimum of 5 days; patients should be clinically stable with normal vital signs before discontinuing therapy (ATS/IDSA [Metlay 2019]).

Prosthetic joint infection (off-label use):

Treatment: Oral continuation therapy for S. aureus (following pathogen-specific IV therapy in patients undergoing 1-stage exchange or debridement with retention of prosthesis) (alternative agent): Oral: 100 mg twice daily in combination with rifampin; duration is a minimum of 3 months, depending on patient-specific factors (Berbari 2019; IDSA [Osmon 2013]).

Chronic suppression for staphylococci (methicillin resistant) and Cutibacterium acnes (alternative agent for C. acnes): Oral: 100 mg twice daily (IDSA [Osmon 2013]).

Q fever: Oral:

Acute: 100 mg every 12 hours for 14 days (CDC [Anderson 2013]). Note: In patients with valvulopathy/cardiomyopathy, some experts recommend extending treatment to 12 months in combination with hydroxychloroquine to prevent progression to persistent infection (Million 2013; Raoult 2020).

Persistent localized infection (endocarditis, vascular infection): Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours in combination with hydroxychloroquine for ≥18 months depending on site of infection and serologic response (CDC [Anderson 2013]).

Rhinosinusitis, acute bacterial (alternative agent for beta-lactam intolerance): Oral: 200 mg/day in 1 to 2 divided doses for 5 to 7 days (IDSA [Chow 2012]). Note: In uncomplicated acute bacterial rhinosinusitis, initial observation and symptom management without antibiotic therapy is appropriate in most patients (ACP/CDC [Harris 2016]).

Rocky Mountain spotted fever: Oral, IV: 100 mg twice daily for 5 to 7 days or for at least 3 days after fever subsides, whichever is longer; initiate treatment as soon as possible. Severe or complicated disease may require longer treatment (CDC [Biggs 2016]). Note: A loading dose of 200 mg IV is recommended for critically ill patients (Sexton 2019b).

Rosacea, moderate to severe or unresponsive to topical therapy: Oral:

Traditional dosing (off-label dose): Initial: 50 to 100 mg twice daily for 4 to 12 weeks; may follow with a topical agent and/or subantimicrobial doxycycline dosing for long-term management. Alternatively, may initiate therapy with subantimicrobial dosing (Akhyani 2008; Maier 2019).

Subantimicrobial dosing: 40 mg once daily (delayed release; Oracea) or 20 mg twice daily (immediate release) (Sanchez 2005).

Sexually transmitted infections:

Cervicitis or urethritis:

Chlamydia trachomatis: Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 7 days (CDC [Workowski 2015]) or 200 mg delayed release once daily for 7 days (Geisler 2012); consider concurrent treatment for gonorrhea with a single dose of ceftriaxone based on individual risk factors, if local prevalence is elevated (>5%), or if intracellular gram-negative diplococci on Gram stain (CDC [Workowski 2015]; Marrazzo 2017). Note: Directly observed single-dose azithromycin is preferred for the treatment of uncomplicated genital chlamydial infections by some experts (Marrazzo 2017).

Neisseria gonorrhea (alternative agent [due to resistance]; reserve for patients with azithromycin intolerance): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 7 days in combination with a single dose of ceftriaxone (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Epididymitis, acute (off-label use): Empiric or pathogen-directed therapy for chlamydia and/or gonorrhea: Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 10 days with single dose of ceftriaxone (CDC [Workowski 2015]). Note: An alternative regimen is recommended in patients who practice insertive anal sex (Eyre 2019; Marrazzo 2017).

Granuloma inguinale (donovanosis) (alternative agent): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for at least 3 weeks and until all lesions have healed. Note: If symptoms do not improve within the first few days of therapy, another agent (eg, aminoglycoside) can be added (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Lymphogranuloma venereum: Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 21 days (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Pelvic inflammatory disease (off-label use):

Inpatient (severe PID): IV, Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours in combination with cefoxitin or cefotetan; transition to oral therapy after >24 hours improvement to complete a 14-day total course. If pelvic abscess, anaerobic coverage is warranted (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Outpatient (mild to moderate PID): Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours for 14 days in combination with a single dose of ceftriaxone (preferred) (Wiesenfeld 2019) or single dose of cefoxitin plus oral probenecid or other third generation cephalosporin; if Trichomonas vaginalis or recent uterine instrumentation, add metronidazole (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Proctitis, acute or proctocolitis (off-label use): Empiric or pathogen-directed therapy for chlamydia and/or gonorrhea: Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 7 days plus a single dose of ceftriaxone. Note: Provide 21 days of doxycycline if polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) confirmed or as presumptive therapy for LGV if patient has severe rectal symptoms (eg, bloody discharge, perianal ulcers, or mucosal ulcers), and either a positive rectal chlamydia NAAT or HIV infection. Additional coverage for herpes simplex virus is warranted in patients with perianal or mucosal ulcers (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Syphilis, penicillin-allergic patients: Note: Limited data support use of alternatives to penicillin and close serologic and clinical follow up is warranted (CDC [Workowski 2015]; Hicks 2019).

Early syphilis (primary, secondary, and early latent): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 14 days (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Late syphilis (late latent): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 28 days (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Surgical prophylaxis, uterine evacuation (induced abortion or pregnancy loss) (off-label use): Oral: 200 mg as a single dose 1 hour prior to uterine aspiration (ACOG 195 2018); may be administered up to 12 hours before the procedure (Achilles 2011). Note: The optimal dosing regimen has not been established; various protocols are in use (Achilles 2011; RCOG 2015; White 2018; White 2019).

Tularemia (Francisella tularensis):

Treatment (mild infection) (alternative agent): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 14 to 21 days (IDSA [Stevens 2014]; Penn 2019).

Postexposure prophylaxis (nonbioterrorism event, high-risk exposure): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 14 days (Penn 2019).

Bioterrorism event: Note: Consult public health officials for event-specific recommendations.

Mass casualty management or postexposure prophylaxis (when used as a biological weapon): Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 14 days (Dennis 2001).

Contained casualty management (when used as a biological weapon): IV (may transition to oral if clinically appropriate): 100 mg every 12 hours for 14 to 21 days (Dennis 2001).

Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.

* See Dosage and Administration in AHFS Essentials for additional information.

Dosing: Geriatric

Refer to adult dosing.

Dosing: Renal Impairment: Adult

The renal dosing recommendations are based upon the best available evidence and clinical expertise. Senior Editorial Team: Bruce Mueller, PharmD, FCCP, FASN, FNKF; Jason Roberts, PhD, BPharm (Hons), B App Sc, FSHP, FISAC; Michael Heung, MD, MS.

IV, Oral:

Mild to severe impairment: No dosage adjustment necessary (Alestig 1973; Lee 1972).

Hemodialysis, intermittent (thrice weekly): Poorly dialyzed (0% to 5%); no supplemental dose or dosage adjustment necessary (Houin 1983; Lee 1972; Letteri 1973).

Peritoneal dialysis: Poorly dialyzed; no dosage adjustment necessary (Letteri 1973).

CRRT: No dosage adjustment necessary (Heintz 2009).

PIRRT (eg, sustained, low-efficiency diafiltration): No dosage adjustment necessary (expert opinion).

Dosing: Hepatic Impairment: Adult

There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.

Dosing: Pediatric

Note: Doxycycline is available as hyclate, monohydrate, and calcium salts. All doses are expressed as doxycycline base.

General dosing:

Children and Adolescents: Oral, IV: 2.2 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours, maximum dose: 100 mg/dose. Note: Use of doxycycline in children <8 years should be reserved for severe, potentially life-threatening infections, or when better alternatives are unavailable (Red Book [AAP 2018]; manufacturer's labeling).

Acne vulgaris, moderate to severe, treatment: Limited data available: Children ≥8 years and Adolescents: Oral: 50 to 100 mg once or twice daily or 150 mg once daily (Eichenfeld 2013).

Anthrax (AAP [Bradley 2014]): Note: Consult public health officials for event-specific recommendations.

Prophylaxis; postexposure (inhalation or cutaneous); prior to susceptibility testing or penicillin-resistant strains: Note: Doxycycline is a preferred option or ciprofloxacin: Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Treatment duration: 60 days.

Patient weight <45 kg: Oral: 2.2 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours.

Patient weight ≥45 kg: Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours.

Treatment; susceptible strains:

Cutaneous infection without systemic involvement: Note: Doxycycline is an option if first-line therapy (ie, ciprofloxacin) is unavailable or patient unable to tolerate; for naturally-occurring infection, usual treatment duration is 7 to 10 days; in the event of biological weapon exposure, additional therapy (as prophylaxis for inhaled spores) is necessary for a total course of 60 days from onset of illness.

Infants, Children, and Adolescents:

Patient weight <45 kg: Oral: 2.2 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours.

Patient weight ≥45 kg: Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours.

Systemic anthrax, excluding meningitis: Note: Not recommended for meningitis or disseminated infection when meningitis cannot be ruled out. Doxycycline is an alternative to clindamycin as protein synthesis inhibitor and should be used in combination with a bactericidal antimicrobial (eg, fluoroquinolone, carbapenem, vancomycin). Duration of therapy at least 14 days or longer until patient clinically stable; additional therapy (as prophylaxis for inhaled spores) is necessary for a total course of 60 days from onset of illness.

Infants, Children, and Adolescents:

Patient weight <45 kg:

Initial: IV: Loading dose: 4.4 mg/kg once, then 2.2 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours; may transition to oral therapy for patients without signs of active infection who are able to tolerate oral therapy and patient/caregiver adherent to therapy.

Step-down: Oral: 2.2 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours.

Patient weight ≥45 kg:

Initial: IV: Loading dose: 200 mg once, then 100 mg every 12 hours; may transition to oral therapy for patients without signs of active infection who are able to tolerate oral therapy and patient/caregiver adherent to therapy.

Step-down: Oral: 100 mg every 12 hours.

Brucellosis: Limited data available: Children ≥8 years and Adolescents: Oral: 2.2 mg/kg/dose twice daily for at least 6 weeks; maximum dose: 100 mg/dose; use in combination with rifampin; for serious infections, an aminoglycoside should be added for initial 1 to 2 weeks and therapy may be extended for up to 4 to 6 months (AAP [Bradley 2019]; Red Book [AAP 2018]).

Chlamydial infections, uncomplicated (sexually transmitted C. trachomatis):

Children ≥8 years: Oral: 2.2 mg/kg/dose twice daily for 7 days. Maximum dose: 100 mg/dose (AAP [Bradley 2019]).

Adolescents: Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 7 days (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Lyme disease: Limited data available:

Prophylaxis, postexposure: Children and Adolescents: Oral: 4.4 mg/kg/dose once as a single dose; maximum dose: 200 mg/dose; initiate within 72 hours of tick removal (CDC 2019).

Treatment:

Early Lyme disease: Note: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends the use of doxycycline in ages <8 years for treatment courses ≤21 days; this recommendation is based upon data in younger children treated for Rocky Mountain spotted fever that suggest short courses of doxycycline are unlikely to cause visible teeth staining or enamel hyperplasia (Red Book [AAP 2018]).

Erythema migrans: Children ≥8 years and Adolescents: Oral: 2 mg/kg/dose twice daily for 10 to 21 days (usual duration: 14 days); maximum dose: 100 mg/dose (IDSA [Wormser 2006]).

Meningitis, neurologic Lyme disease: Children ≥8 years and Adolescents: Oral: 2 to 4 mg/kg/dose twice daily for 10 to 28 days; maximum dose: 200 mg/dose (IDSA [Wormser 2006]).

Borrelial lymphocytoma: Children ≥8 years and Adolescents: Oral: 2 mg/kg/dose twice daily for 10 to 21 days (usual duration: 14 days); maximum dose: 100 mg/dose (IDSA [Wormser 2006]).

Late Lyme disease: Lyme arthritis (no neurologic involvement): Children ≥8 years and Adolescents: Oral: 2 mg/kg/dose twice daily for 28 days; maximum dose: 100 mg/dose (IDSA [Wormser 2006]).

Malaria:

Prophylaxis: Children ≥8 years and Adolescents: Oral: 2.2 mg/kg/dose once daily starting 1 to 2 days before travel to the area with endemic infection, continuing daily during travel and for 4 weeks after leaving endemic area; maximum daily dose: 100 mg/day (CDC [Tan 2019]).

Treatment: Children and Adolescents: Oral, IV: 2.2 mg/kg/dose twice daily for 7 days; maximum dose: 100 mg/dose; use in combination with quinine sulfate (plus primaquine for Plasmodium vivax) (CDC 2019). Note: Use of doxycycline in children <8 years should be reserved for when alternatives are not available or are not tolerated; benefits should outweigh risks.

Pneumonia, community-acquired; presumed or proven atypical infection (Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae): Children ≥8 years and Adolescents: Oral: 1 to 2 mg/kg/dose twice daily for 10 days (IDSA [Bradley 2011]).

Q fever (Coxiella burnetii) (preferred therapy): Children and Adolescents: Oral: 2.2 mg/kg/dose twice daily for 14 days; maximum dose: 100 mg/dose; in children <8 years with mild or uncomplicated disease, may consider treatment duration of 5 days, and if longer treatment required, may consider alternate therapy (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole) (CDC [Anderson 2013]).

Skin/soft tissue infections; MRSA or community-acquired cellulitis (purulent) (IDSA [Liu 2011]): Children ≥8 years and Adolescents:

≤45 kg: Oral: 2 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours for 5 to 10 days.

>45 kg: Oral: 100 mg twice daily for 5 to 10 days.

Tickborne rickettsial disease (Rocky Mountain spotted fever), ehrlichiosis, or anaplasmosis: Children and Adolescents: Oral, IV: 2.2 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours; maximum dose: 100 mg/dose; treat for minimum of 5 to 7 days; continue for at least 3 days after defervescence and clinical improvement observed. Severe or complicated disease may require longer treatment; anaplasmosis should be treated for 10 days (CDC [Biggs 2016]).

Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.

Dosing: Renal Impairment: Pediatric

Children and Adolescents: IV, Oral: Limited data available:

Mild to severe kidney impairment: Based on adult information, no dosage adjustment is necessary (Alestig 1973; Lee 1972).

Hemodialysis, intermittent (thrice weekly): Poorly dialyzed (0% to 5%); based on adult information, no supplemental dose or dosage adjustment necessary (Houin 1983; Lee 1972; Letteri 1973).

Peritoneal dialysis: Poorly dialyzed; based on adult information, no dosage adjustment necessary (Letteri 1973).

Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT): Based on adult information, no dosage adjustment necessary (Heintz 2009).

Dosing: Hepatic Impairment: Pediatric

There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.

Use: Labeled Indications

Acne: Adjunctive therapy in severe acne.

Actinomycosis: Treatment of actinomycosis caused by Actinomyces israelii when penicillin is contraindicated.

Acute intestinal amebiasis: Adjunct to amebicides in acute intestinal amebiasis.

Anthrax, including inhalational anthrax (postexposure): Treatment of anthrax caused by Bacillus anthracis, including inhalational (postexposure) prophylaxis; to reduce the incidence or progression of disease following exposure to aerosolized B. anthracis.

Cholera: Treatment of cholera infections caused by Vibrio cholerae.

Clostridium: Treatment of infections caused by Clostridium spp. when penicillin is contraindicated.

Gram-negative infections: Treatment of infections caused by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella aerogenes (formerly Enterobacter aerogenes), Shigella spp., Acinetobacter spp., Klebsiella spp. (respiratory and urinary infections), and Bacteroides spp.; Neisseria meningitidis (when penicillin is contraindicated).

Gram-positive infections: Treatment of infections caused by Streptococcus spp., when susceptible.

Listeriosis: Treatment of listeriosis due to Listeria monocytogenes when penicillin is contraindicated.

Malaria, prophylaxis: Prophylaxis of malaria due to Plasmodium falciparum in short-term travelers (under 4 months) to areas with chloroquine and/or pyrimethamine-sulfadoxine-resistant strains.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae: Treatment of infections caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

Ophthalmic infections: Treatment of inclusion conjunctivitis or trachoma caused by Chlamydia trachomatis.

Periodontitis (20 mg tablet and capsule [Periostat (Canadian product)] only): Adjunct to scaling and root planing to promote attachment level gain and to reduce pocket depth in patients with adult periodontitis.

Relapsing fever: Treatment of relapsing fever caused by Borrelia recurrentis.

Respiratory tract infections: Treatment of respiratory infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella spp., or Mycoplasma pneumoniae; treatment of upper respiratory tract infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae; respiratory infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (doxycycline is not the drug of choice in the treatment of any type of staphylococcal infection).

Rickettsial infections: Treatment of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, typhus fever and the typhus group, Q fever, rickettsialpox, and tick fevers caused by Rickettsiae.

Rosacea (Oracea, Apprilon [Canadian product] only): Treatment of only inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules) of rosacea in adults.

Sexually transmitted infections: Treatment of lymphogranuloma venereum and uncomplicated urethral, endocervical, or rectal infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis; granuloma inguinale (donovanosis) caused by Klebsiella granulomatis; chancroid caused by Haemophilus ducreyi; nongonococcal urethritis caused by Ureaplasma urealyticum; when penicillin is contraindicated, uncomplicated gonorrhea caused by Neisseria gonorrhea and syphilis caused by Treponema pallidum.

Note: The CDC sexually transmitted disease guidelines recommend dual antimicrobial therapy be used for uncomplicated gonorrhea due to N. gonorrhea resistance concerns; ceftriaxone is the preferred cephalosporin and doxycycline is an alternative option for the second antimicrobial only in cases of azithromycin allergy (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Skin and skin structure infections (Avidoxy only): Treatment of skin and skin structure infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (doxycycline is not the drug of choice in the treatment of any type of staphylococcal infection).

Vincent infection: Treatment of Vincent infection caused by Fusobacterium fusiforme when penicillin is contraindicated.

Yaws: Treatment of yaws caused by Treponema pallidum subspecies pertenue when penicillin is contraindicated.

Zoonotic infections: Treatment of psittacosis (ornithosis) caused by Chlamydophila psittaci; plague due to Yersinia pestis; tularemia caused by Francisella tularensis; brucellosis caused by Brucella spp. (in conjunction with streptomycin); bartonellosis caused by Bartonella bacilliformis; infections caused by Campylobacter fetus.

* See Uses in AHFS Essentials for additional information.

Use: Off-Label: Adult

​Anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosisLevel of Evidence [G]

Based on the Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) guidelines for the clinical assessment, treatment, and prevention of Lyme disease, human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) and babesiosis and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guideline for the diagnosis and management of tickborne rickettsial diseases, doxycycline is effective and recommended for the treatment of human anaplasmosis (also known as HGA) and human ehrlichiosis Ref.

​Bite wound infection (animal or human bite)Level of Evidence [G]

Based on the IDSA guidelines for the diagnosis and management of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs), doxycycline is an acceptable alternative agent for the prophylaxis and treatment of bite wounds (animal or human) Ref.

​Cellulitis, mild to moderateLevel of Evidence [G]

Based on the IDSA guidelines for the diagnosis and management of SSTIs and the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections, doxycycline is an effective and recommended treatment option for SSTIs caused by MRSA, particularly purulent cellulitis due to community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) Ref.

​Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute exacerbationLevel of Evidence [B]

Data from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial support the use of doxycycline in the treatment of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Ref.

​Epididymitis, acuteLevel of Evidence [G]

Based on the CDC sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, doxycycline in combination with ceftriaxone is an effective and recommended agent in the treatment acute epididymitis likely caused by sexually transmitted chlamydia and gonorrhea Ref.

​Hidradenitis suppurativaLevel of Evidence [C]

Data from 1 small retrospective study suggest that doxycycline may be beneficial for the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa Ref. Clinical experience also suggests the utility of doxycycline for this indication Ref.

​Lyme disease (Borrelia spp. infection)Level of Evidence [B, G]

Controlled trials support the use of doxycycline in the prevention of development of Lyme disease when administered within 72 hours of the Ixodes scapularis tick bite and also in the management of multiple manifestations of Lyme disease Ref.

Guidelines from the IDSA recommend the use of oral doxycycline as an effective treatment for multiple manifestations of Lyme disease, including more severe neurological manifestations and late Lyme arthritis Ref. Access Full Off-Label Monograph

​Malaria, treatmentLevel of Evidence [G]

Based on the CDC treatment of malaria: guidelines for clinicians (United States), doxycycline is an effective and recommended alternative option for the treatment of malaria Ref.

​Otitis media, acuteLevel of Evidence [C]

Clinical experience suggests the utility of doxycycline for the management of acute otitis media Ref.

​Pelvic inflammatory diseaseLevel of Evidence [G]

Based on the CDC sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, doxycycline, in combination with other appropriate agents, is effective and recommended in the treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease Ref.

​Pleurodesis, chemical (sclerosing agent for pleural effusion)Level of Evidence [C, G]

Data from a limited number of patients studied suggest that intrapleural doxycycline may be beneficial in the management of malignant pleural effusions Ref.

Based on the American College of Chest Physicians diagnosis and management of lung cancer clinical practice guidelines, intrapleural doxycycline is effective and recommended in the management of recurrent, symptomatic, malignant pleural effusions.

​Proctitis, acute or proctocolitisLevel of Evidence [G]

Based on the CDC sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, doxycycline in combination with ceftriaxone is an effective and recommended agent in the treatment of acute proctitis or proctocolitis Ref.

​Prosthetic joint infectionLevel of Evidence [G]

Based on the IDSA guidelines for the management of prosthetic joint infection, doxycycline is an effective and recommended agent for treatment (oral phase) of prosthetic joint infection and for chronic oral antimicrobial suppression of prosthetic joint infection due to staphylococci or Cutibacterium acnes.

​Surgical prophylaxis, uterine evacuation (induced abortion or pregnancy loss)Level of Evidence [G]

Based on the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) clinical management guidelines for prevention of infection after gynecologic procedures and the ACOG clinical management guidelines for second trimester abortion, antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for all patients undergoing first or second trimester surgical abortion Ref.

Based on the ACOG guidelines for prevention of infection after gynecologic procedures, doxycycline is effective and recommended as antimicrobial prophylaxis for uterine evacuation procedures for induced abortion or pregnancy loss Ref.

Level of Evidence Definitions

​Level of Evidence Scale

Class and Related Monographs

Tetracyclines

Clinical Practice Guidelines

Acne:

American Academy of Dermatology, "Guidelines of Care for the Management of Acne Vulgaris," May 2016

Anthrax:

ACIP, “Use of Anthrax Vaccine in the United States: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, 2019,” December 2019

CDC, “Expert Panel Meetings on Prevention and Treatment of Anthrax in Adults,” February 2014

Diabetic Foot Infection:

IDSA, “The Diagnosis and Treatment of Diabetic Foot Infections,” 2012

Infective Endocarditis:

British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (BSAC), "Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Antibiotic Treatment of Endocarditis in Adults," 2012

Lyme Disease:

IDSA, "Clinical Practice Guidelines for Lyme Disease," 2006

Malaria:

CDC, “Health Information for National Travel, 2020 ” (The Yellow Book)

CDC, “Treatment of Malaria: Guidelines for Clinicians (United States)”

WHO, “Guidelines for the Treatment of Malaria,” 2015

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Infections:

IDSA, “Practice Guidelines for the Treatment of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus,” February 2011

Opportunistic Infections:

HHS, "Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Opportunistic Infections in Adults and Adolescents with HIV"

Osteomyelitis, Native Vertebral:

IDSA, "Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Native Vertebral Osteomyelitis in Adults," 2015

Pneumonia, Community-Acquired:

ATS/IDSA, "Diagnosis and Treatment of Adults with Community-Acquired Pneumonia," 2019

Prosthetic Joint Infection:

IDSA, “Diagnosis and Management of Prosthetic Joint Infection: Clinical Practice Guideline,” January 2013

Q Fever:

CDC, “Diagnosis and Management of Q Fever,” March 2013

Rhinosinusitis:

IDSA, “Clinical Practice Guideline for Acute Bacterial Rhinosinusitis in Children and Adults,” 2012

Sexually Transmitted Disease:

CDC, “Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines,” June 2015

Public Health Agency of Canada, “Canadian Guidelines on Sexually Transmitted Infections," January 2010

WHO, "Guidelines for the Treatment of Chlamydia trachomatis,” 2016

WHO, "Guidelines for the Treatment of Treponema pallidum (syphilis),” 2016

Skin and Soft-tissue Infection:

IDSA, “Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Skin and Soft Tissue Infections,” June 2014

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth:

ACG, “Clinical Guideline: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth,” February 2020

Tickborne Rickettsial Diseases:

CDC, "Diagnosis and Management of Tickborne Rickettsial Diseases: Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Other Spotted Fever Rickettsioses, Ehrlichioses, and Anaplasmosis - United States," May 2016

Other:

ACCP, "Symptom Management in Patients with Lung Cancer," 2013

Administration: IV

Infuse slowly, usually over 1 to 4 hours. Avoid extravasation. Prolonged IV administration may cause thrombophlebitis. Oral administration is preferable unless patient has significant nausea and vomiting; IV and oral routes are bioequivalent.

Administration: Injectable Detail

pH: 1.8 to 3.3 (reconstituted solution)

Administration: Oral

Oral administration is preferable unless patient has significant nausea and vomiting; IV and oral routes are bioequivalent.

In general, administer with meals to decrease GI upset; however, some manufacturer labeling recommends administration on an empty stomach (see below). Administer capsule and tablet with at least 8 ounces (240 mL) of water and have patient sit up for at least 30 minutes or 1 to 2 hours (Canadian labeling) after taking to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation and ulceration.

Acticlate: Swallow capsule whole; do not break, open, crush, dissolve, or chew. The 150 mg tablet may be broken into 2/3 or 1/3 to provide a 100 mg and 50 mg strength, respectively.

Doxycycline 20 mg tablet, Oracea, Apprilon [Canadian product]: Administer on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.

Doryx: May be administered by carefully breaking up the tablet and sprinkling contents on a spoonful of cold applesauce. The delayed-release pellets must not be crushed or damaged when breaking up tablet. Should be administered immediately after preparation and without chewing; follow with a cool 8-ounce (240 mL) glass of water to ensure complete swallowing. If applesauce/pellet mixture is not administered immediately, discard (do not store for future use).

Doryx MPC: Do not chew or crush tablets.

Periostat [Canadian product]: Administer 1 hour before breakfast and evening meal.

Bariatric surgery: Some institutions may have specific protocols that conflict with these recommendations; refer to institutional protocols as appropriate.

Capsule, delayed release: Delayed-release capsule may not be opened. Switch to IR formulation (capsule, tablet, or oral suspension) at closest possible dose.

Tablet, extended release: Delayed-release tablet can be cut into small pieces but not crushed.

Administration: Other

Intrapleural (off-label route): Instill diluted doxycycline (combined with or following instillation of a local anesthetic) into chest tube; clamp chest tube for 2 hours (Porcel 2006; Robinson 1993)

Administration: Pediatric

Oral: Administer capsules or tablets with adequate amounts of fluid and remain in an upright position following administration (to avoid throat irritation); may be administered with food or milk to decrease GI upset (though absorption may be slightly reduced). Shake suspension well before use.

Acticlate:

Capsule: Swallow capsule whole; do not break, open, crush, dissolve, or chew the capsule.

Tablet (150 mg): May be broken into 1/3 to provide 50 mg dose or 2/3 to provide 100 mg/dose.

Doryx: May break up the tablet and sprinkle the delayed-release pellets on a spoonful of applesauce. Do not crush or damage the delayed-release pellets; loss or damage of pellets prevents using the dose. Swallow the Doryx/applesauce mixture immediately without chewing. Discard mixture if it cannot be used immediately.

Parenteral: For IV use only; administer over 1 to 4 hours; avoid rapid infusion.

Dietary Considerations

Tetracyclines (in general): Take with food if gastric irritation occurs. While administration with food may decrease GI absorption of doxycycline by up to 20%, administration on an empty stomach is generally not recommended due to GI intolerance. Of currently available tetracyclines, doxycycline has the least affinity for calcium.

Doxycycline 20 mg tablet, Oracea, Apprilon [Canadian product]: Manufacturer states to take on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Take with food if gastric irritation occurs.

Periostat [Canadian product]: Manufacturer states to take at least 1 hour before morning and evening meals. Take with food if gastric irritation occurs.

Some products may contain sodium.

Storage/Stability

Capsule, tablet, delayed-release tablet: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Protect from light and moisture.

Syrup, oral suspension: Store below 30°C (86°F); protect from light.

Injection: Store intact vials at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); protect from light. Stability of IV infusion varies based on solution; refer to manufacturer's labeling.

Preparation for Administration: Adult

Intravenous: Reconstitute vials with 10 mL of SWFI or compatible IV solution for each 100 mg of doxycycline, to a concentration of 10 mg/mL. Each 100 mg is further diluted with 100 to 1,000 mL of a compatible IV solution (eg, D5W, NS) to a final concentration of 0.1 to 1 mg/mL.

Intrapleural (off-label route): Dilute with 30 to 100 mL NS; may also combine with or administer following a local anesthetic (Porcel 2006; Robinson 1993)

Preparation for Administration: Pediatric

Parenteral: IV: Reconstitute each 100 mg vial with 10 mL SWFI or other compatible solution, resulting in a concentration of 10 mg/mL; following reconstitution, further dilute with a compatible solution (eg, D5W, NS) to a final concentration of 0.1 to 1 mg/mL.

Compatibility

See Trissel’s IV Compatibility Database

Open Trissel's IV Compatibility

Extemporaneously Prepared

If a public health emergency is declared and liquid doxycycline is unavailable for the treatment of anthrax, emergency doses may be prepared for children or adults who cannot swallow tablets.

Add 20 mL of water to one 100 mg tablet. Allow tablet to soak in the water for 5 minutes to soften. Crush into a fine powder and stir until well mixed. Appropriate dose should be taken from this mixture. To increase palatability, mix with food or drink. If mixing with drink, add 15 mL of milk, chocolate milk, chocolate pudding, or apple juice to the appropriate dose of mixture. If using apple juice, also add 4 teaspoons of sugar. Doxycycline and water mixture may be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours.

US Food and Drug Administration, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, “Public Health Emergency Home Preparation Instructions for Doxycycline.” Available at http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/EmergencyPreparedness/BioterrorismandDrugPreparedness/ucm130996.htm

Medication Patient Education with HCAHPS Considerations

What is this drug used for?

• It is used to treat pimples (acne).

• It is used to treat or prevent bacterial infections.

• It is used to prevent malaria.

• It is used to treat swelling of the tissue around the teeth (periodontitis). It is used with scaling and root planing.

• It is used to treat rosacea.

• It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Tooth discoloration

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Lack of appetite

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Liver problems like dark urine, fatigue, lack of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin

• Pancreatitis like severe abdominal pain, severe back pain, severe nausea, or vomiting

• Chest pain

• Not able to pass urine

• Change in amount of urine passed

• Chills

• Sore throat

• Trouble swallowing

• Bruising

• Bleeding

• Joint pain

• Muscle pain

• Fast heartbeat

• Fast breathing

• Throat irritation

• Skin discoloration

• Flushing

• Severe dizziness

• Passing out

• Severe loss of strength and energy

• Swollen gland

• Vaginal itching or discharge

• Headache

• Blurred vision

• Double vision

• Blindness

• Clostridioides (formerly Clostridium) difficile-associated diarrhea like abdominal pain or cramps, severe diarrhea or watery stools, or bloody stools.

• Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis like red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever); red or irritated eyes; or sores in mouth, throat, nose, or eyes.

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine's uses from the patient education leaflet and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information available about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please speak with your healthcare provider and review the entire patient education leaflet.

Medication Safety Issues

​Sound-alike/look-alike issues:

​International issues:

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to doxycycline, other tetracyclines, or any component of the formulation

Periostat, Apprilon [Canadian products]: Additional contraindications: Use in infants and children <8 years of age or during second or third trimester of pregnancy; breast-feeding

Warnings/Precautions

Concerns related to adverse effects:

• GI inflammation/ulceration: Esophagitis and ulcerations (sometimes severe) may occur; patients with dysphagia and/or retrosternal pain may require assessment for esophageal lesions.

• Hepatotoxicity: Rarely occurs; if symptomatic, assess LFTs and discontinue drug.

• Hypersensitivity syndromes: Severe skin reactions (eg, exfoliative dermatitis, erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms [DRESS]) have been reported. Discontinue therapy for serious hypersensitivity reactions.

• Increased BUN: May be associated with increases in BUN secondary to antianabolic effects; this does not occur with use of doxycycline in patients with renal impairment.

• Intracranial hypertension: Intracranial hypertension (pseudotumor cerebri) has been reported; headache, blurred vision, diplopia, vision loss, and/or papilledema may occur. Women of childbearing age who are overweight or have a history of intracranial hypertension are at greater risk. Intracranial hypertension typically resolves after discontinuation of treatment; however, permanent visual loss is possible. If visual symptoms develop during treatment, prompt ophthalmologic evaluation is warranted. Intracranial pressure can remain elevated for weeks after drug discontinuation; monitor patient until stable.

• Photosensitivity: May cause photosensitivity; discontinue at first sign of skin erythema. Use skin protection and avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet light.

• Superinfection: Prolonged use may result in fungal or bacterial superinfection, including C. difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) and pseudomembranous colitis; CDAD has been observed >2 months postantibiotic treatment.

• Tissue hyperpigmentation: May induce hyperpigmentation in many organs, including nails, bone, skin (diffuse pigmentation as well as over sites of scars and injury), eyes, thyroid, visceral tissue, oral cavity (adult teeth, mucosa, alveolar bone), sclerae, and heart valves independently of time or amount of drug administration.

Disease-related concerns

• Oral candidiasis: Safety and effectiveness have not been established for treatment of periodontitis in patients with coexistent oral candidiasis; use with caution in patients with a history or predisposition to oral candidiasis.

Special populations:

• Pediatric: May cause tissue hyperpigmentation, tooth enamel hypoplasia, or permanent tooth discoloration (more common with long-term use, but observed with repeated, short courses) when used during tooth development (last half of pregnancy, infancy, and childhood ≤8 years of age); manufacturer states to use in children ≤8 years of age only when the potential benefits outweigh the risks in severe or life threatening conditions (eg, anthrax, Rocky Mountain spotted fever), particularly when there are no alternative therapies. Limited use between 6 to 7 years of age has minimal effect on the color of permanent incisors (CDC [Biggs 2016]). Recommended in prevention and treatment of anthrax (AAP [Bradley 2014]), treatment of tickborne rickettsial diseases (CDC [Biggs 2016]), and Q fever (CDC 2013).

Dosage form specific issues:

• Oracea, Apprilon [Canadian product]: Should not be used for the treatment or prophylaxis of bacterial infections because the lower dose of drug per capsule may be subefficacious and promote resistance.

• Sulfite sensitivity: Syrup may contain sodium metabisulfite, which may cause allergic reactions in certain individuals (eg, asthmatic patients).

Other warnings/precautions:

• Appropriate use: Acne: The American Academy of Dermatology acne guidelines recommend doxycycline as adjunctive treatment for moderate and severe acne and forms of inflammatory acne that are resistant to topical treatments. Concomitant topical therapy with benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid should be administered with systemic antibiotic therapy (eg, doxycycline) and continued for maintenance after the antibiotic course is completed (AAD [Zaenglein 2016]).

• Limitations of use: Malaria prophylaxis: Doxycycline does not completely suppress asexual blood stages of Plasmodium strains; does not suppress P. falciparum's sexual blood stage gametocytes. Patients completing a regimen may still transmit the infection to mosquitoes outside endemic areas.

* See Cautions in AHFS Essentials for additional information.

Geriatric Considerations

Dose adjustment for renal function is not necessary.

Warnings: Additional Pediatric Considerations

Tooth staining or enamel hypoplasia of developing teeth is a known concern with the use of tetracycline-class of antibiotics in children <8 years of age based on experience with older tetracyclines which bind to calcium more readily than doxycycline. A cohort analysis of 58 children who were exposed to doxycycline for treatment of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever when <8 years of age reported no visible tetracycline-like tooth staining of permanent teeth at recommended dose and duration compared to a control group of 213 children not exposed to doxycycline; the cohort received a total of 107 courses of doxycycline (multiple courses), mean duration: 7.3 days (range: 1 to 10 days), and mean dose: 2.3 mg/kg/day (Todd 2015). An analysis of 31 asthmatic children who received doxycycline also reported no evidence of tooth staining. A meta-analysis of the combined data reported a 0% prevalence rate for tooth staining (CDC [Biggs 2016]; Todd 2015). Retrospective data suggests that at standard doses, children <8 years could receive up to 5 courses of doxycycline without detectable evidence of tooth staining (AAP [Bradley 2014]). The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the use of doxycycline in children <8 years of age for short durations (≤21 days) when appropriate (Red Book [AAP 2018]).

Administration of tetracycline 25 mg/kg/day was associated with decreased fibular growth rate in premature infants (reversible with discontinuation of drug); bulging fontanels have been reported in infants.

Some dosage forms may contain propylene glycol; in neonates large amounts of propylene glycol delivered orally, intravenously (eg, >3,000 mg/day), or topically have been associated with potentially fatal toxicities which can include metabolic acidosis, seizures, renal failure, and CNS depression; toxicities have also been reported in children and adults including hyperosmolality, lactic acidosis, seizures, and respiratory depression; use caution (AAP 1997; Shehab 2009).

Reproductive Considerations

Doxycycline can be detected in semen (Zakhem 2019). The manufacturer does not recommend use of doxycycline for the treatment of rosacea in males with female partners who plan to become pregnant.

Pregnancy Considerations

Tetracyclines cross the placenta (Mylonas 2011).

Therapeutic doses of doxycycline during pregnancy are unlikely to produce substantial teratogenic risk, but data are insufficient to say that there is no risk. In general, reports of exposure have been limited to short durations of therapy in the first trimester. Tetracyclines accumulate in developing teeth and long tubular bones (Mylonas 2011). Permanent discoloration of teeth (yellow, gray, brown) can occur following in utero exposure and is more likely to occur following long-term or repeated exposure.

Doxycycline is the recommended agent for the treatment of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in pregnant women (CDC [Biggs 2016]). For other indications, many guidelines consider use of doxycycline to be contraindicated during pregnancy, or to be a relative contraindication in pregnant women if other agents are available and appropriate for use (CDC [Anderson 2013]; CDC 2020; CDC [Workowski 2015]; HHS [OI adult 2019]; IDSA [Stevens 2014]). Doxycycline should not be used for the treatment of acne or rosacea in pregnant women (AAD [Zaenglein 2016]). When systemic antibiotics are needed for dermatologic conditions, other agents are preferred (Kong 2013; Murase 2014). As a class, tetracyclines are generally considered second-line antibiotics in pregnant women and their use should be avoided (Mylonas 2011).

Breast-Feeding Considerations

Doxycycline is present in breast milk.

The relative infant dose (RID) of doxycycline is 6.14% when calculated using the highest average breast milk concentration located and compared to an infant therapeutic dose of 4.4 mg/kg/day.

In general, breastfeeding is considered acceptable when the RID is <10%; when an RID is >25% breastfeeding should generally be avoided (Anderson 2016; Ito 2000).

Using the highest average milk concentration (1.8 mcg/mL), the estimated daily infant dose via breast milk is 0.27 mg/kg/day. This milk concentration was obtained following maternal administration of a single oral dose of doxycycline 200 mg (Tokuda 1969). Concentrations of doxycycline in breast milk may increase with duration of therapy (Anderson 1991).

Oral absorption of doxycycline is not markedly influenced by simultaneous ingestion of milk; therefore, oral absorption of doxycycline by the breastfeeding infant would not be expected to be diminished by the calcium in the maternal milk.

The therapeutic use of doxycycline should be avoided during tooth development (children <8 years) unless there are no alternative therapies due to the potential for tissue hyperpigmentation, tooth enamel hypoplasia, or permanent tooth discoloration. Theoretically, this risk is also present in breastfeeding infants exposed to doxycycline via breast milk. Although breastfeeding is not specifically contraindicated, the effects of long-term exposure via breast milk are not known. According to the manufacturer, the decision to continue or discontinue breastfeeding during therapy should take into account the risk of infant exposure, the benefits of breastfeeding to the infant, and benefits of treatment to the mother. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that maternal use of doxycycline should be avoided if possible but that a single dose or the short-term use of doxycycline is probably safe; there exists a possibility of dental staining and inhibition of bone growth in the infant, especially with prolonged use (WHO 2002). In general, antibiotics that are present in breast milk may cause nondose-related modification of bowel flora. Monitor infants for GI disturbances, such as thrush and diarrhea (WHO 2002).

Current guidelines note that the short-term use of doxycycline for the treatment of RMSF is considered compatible with breastfeeding (CDC [Biggs 2016]). If used for the treatment or prophylaxis of malaria, breastfeeding during doxycycline therapy is considered compatible; however, the theoretical risk of dental staining and inhibition of long bone growth in the breastfeeding infant should be considered (WHO 2002). Breastfeeding is not recommended when doxycycline is being used for maternal treatment of acne (AAD [Zaenglein 2016]).

Lexicomp Pregnancy & Lactation, In-Depth

• Doxycycline

Briggs' Drugs in Pregnancy & Lactation

• Doxycycline

Adverse Reactions

1% to 10%:

Cardiovascular: Hypertension (3%)

Central nervous system: Anxiety (2%), pain (2%)

Endocrine & metabolic: Increased lactate dehydrogenase (2%), increased serum glucose (1%)

Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea (5%), upper abdominal pain (2%), abdominal distention (1%), abdominal pain (1%), xerostomia (1%)

Hepatic: Increased serum aspartate aminotransferase (2%)

Infection: Fungal infection (2%), influenza (2%)

Neuromuscular & skeletal: Back pain (1%)

Respiratory: Nasopharyngitis (5%), sinusitis (3%), nasal congestion (2%), sinus headache (1%)

Frequency not defined:

Dermatologic: Skin hyperpigmentation

Gastrointestinal: Esophageal ulcer, esophagitis

<1%, postmarketing, and/or case reports: Anaphylactoid reaction, anaphylaxis, angioedema, anorexia, bulging fontanel, Clostridioides difficile associated diarrhea, Clostridioides difficile colitis, dental discoloration, DRESS syndrome, dysphagia, enamel hypoplasia, enterocolitis, eosinophilia, erythema multiforme, erythematous rash, exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus, exfoliative dermatitis, glossitis, headache, hemolytic anemia, hepatotoxicity, hypersensitivity reaction, increased blood urea nitrogen, increased serum alanine aminotransferase, inflammatory anogenital lesion, intracranial hypertension, Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction, maculopapular rash, nausea, neutropenia, pancreatitis, pericarditis, serum sickness, skin hyperpigmentation, skin photosensitivity, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, thrombocytopenia, thyroid disease (brown/black discoloration; no dysfunction reported), toxic epidermal necrolysis, urticaria, vomiting

* See Cautions in AHFS Essentials for additional information.

Allergy and Idiosyncratic Reactions

• Aniline Dye Allergy
• Tetracycline Allergy

Metabolism/Transport Effects

None known.

Drug Interactions Open Interactions

Aminolevulinic Acid (Systemic): Photosensitizing Agents may enhance the photosensitizing effect of Aminolevulinic Acid (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid combination

Aminolevulinic Acid (Topical): Photosensitizing Agents may enhance the photosensitizing effect of Aminolevulinic Acid (Topical). Risk C: Monitor therapy

Antacids: May decrease the absorption of Tetracyclines. Management: Separate administration of antacids and oral tetracycline derivatives by several hours when possible to minimize the extent of this potential interaction. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Barbiturates: May decrease the serum concentration of Doxycycline. Risk C: Monitor therapy

BCG (Intravesical): Antibiotics may diminish the therapeutic effect of BCG (Intravesical). Risk X: Avoid combination

BCG Vaccine (Immunization): Antibiotics may diminish the therapeutic effect of BCG Vaccine (Immunization). Risk C: Monitor therapy

Bile Acid Sequestrants: May decrease the absorption of Tetracyclines. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Bismuth Subcitrate: May decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: Avoid administration of oral tetracyclines within 30 minutes of bismuth subcitrate administration. This is of questionable significance for at least some regimens intended to treat H. pylori infections. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Bismuth Subsalicylate: May decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: Consider dosing tetracyclines 2 hours before or 6 hours after bismuth. The need to separate doses during Helicobacter pylori eradication regimens is questionable. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Calcium Salts: May decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: If coadministration of oral calcium with oral tetracyclines cannot be avoided, consider separating administration of each agent by several hours. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

CarBAMazepine: May decrease the serum concentration of Doxycycline. Management: Consider increasing the doxycycline dose, or using another tetracycline derivative due to the potential for reduced doxycycline therapeutic effects when coadministered wth carbamazepine. If combined, monitor for reduced doxycyline efficacy. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Cholera Vaccine: Antibiotics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Cholera Vaccine. Management: Avoid cholera vaccine in patients receiving systemic antibiotics, and within 14 days following the use of oral or parenteral antibiotics. Risk X: Avoid combination

Fosphenytoin: May decrease the serum concentration of Doxycycline. Management: Consider increasing the dose of doxycycline when initiating phenytoin, or using another tetracycline derivative to avoid this interaction. If coadministered, monitor for decreased therapeutic effects of doxycyline. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Iron Preparations: Tetracyclines may decrease the absorption of Iron Preparations. Iron Preparations may decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: Avoid this combination if possible. Administer oral iron preparations at least 2 hours before, or 4 hours after, the dose of the oral tetracycline derivative. Monitor for decreased therapeutic effect of oral tetracycline derivatives. Exceptions: Ferric Carboxymaltose; Ferric Derisomaltose; Ferric Gluconate; Ferric Hydroxide Polymaltose Complex; Ferric Pyrophosphate Citrate; Ferumoxytol; Iron Dextran Complex; Iron Sucrose. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Lactobacillus and Estriol: Antibiotics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Lactobacillus and Estriol. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Lanthanum: May decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: Administer oral tetracycline antibiotics at least two hours before or after lanthanum. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Lithium: Tetracyclines may increase the serum concentration of Lithium. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Magnesium Dimecrotate: May interact via an unknown mechanism with Tetracyclines. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Magnesium Salts: May decrease the absorption of Tetracyclines. Only applicable to oral preparations of each agent. Management: Avoid coadministration of oral magnesium salts and oral tetracyclines. If coadministration cannot be avoided, administer oral magnesium at least 2 hours before, or 4 hours after, oral tetracyclines. Monitor for decreased tetracycline therapeutic effects. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Mecamylamine: Tetracyclines may enhance the neuromuscular-blocking effect of Mecamylamine. Risk X: Avoid combination

Methoxyflurane: Tetracyclines may enhance the nephrotoxic effect of Methoxyflurane. Risk X: Avoid combination

Mipomersen: Tetracyclines may enhance the hepatotoxic effect of Mipomersen. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Multivitamins/Minerals (with ADEK, Folate, Iron): May decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: Avoid this combination if possible. If coadministration cannot be avoided, administer the polyvalent cation-containing multivitamin at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after the tetracycline derivative. Monitor for decreased tetracycline effects. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Multivitamins/Minerals (with AE, No Iron): May decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: If coadministration of a polyvalent cation-containing multivitamin with oral tetracyclines cannot be avoided, administer the polyvalent cation-containing multivitamin either 2 hours before or 4 hours after the tetracycline product. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents: Tetracyclines may enhance the neuromuscular-blocking effect of Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Penicillins: Tetracyclines may diminish the therapeutic effect of Penicillins. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Phenytoin: May decrease the serum concentration of Doxycycline. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Porfimer: Photosensitizing Agents may enhance the photosensitizing effect of Porfimer. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Proton Pump Inhibitors: May decrease the bioavailability of Doxycycline. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Quinapril: May decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: Separate doses of quinapril and oral tetracycline derivatives by at least 2 hours in order to reduce the risk of interaction. Monitor for reduced efficacy of the tetracycline if these products are used concomitantly. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Retinoic Acid Derivatives: Tetracyclines may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Retinoic Acid Derivatives. The development of pseudotumor cerebri is of particular concern. Exceptions: Adapalene; Bexarotene (Topical); Tretinoin (Topical). Risk X: Avoid combination

RifAMPin: May decrease the serum concentration of Doxycycline. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Sodium Picosulfate: Antibiotics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Sodium Picosulfate. Management: Consider using an alternative product for bowel cleansing prior to a colonoscopy in patients who have recently used or are concurrently using an antibiotic. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Strontium Ranelate: May decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: In order to minimize any potential impact of strontium ranelate on tetracycline antibiotic concentrations, it is recommended that strontium ranelate treatment be interrupted during tetracycline therapy. Risk X: Avoid combination

Sucralfate: May decrease the absorption of Tetracyclines. Management: Administer most tetracycline derivatives at least 2 hours prior to sucralfate in order to minimize the impact of this interaction. Administer oral omadacycline 4 hours prior to sucralfate. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide: May decrease the serum concentration of Tetracyclines. Management: Administer oral/enteral doxycycline at least 1 hour before sucroferric oxyhydroxide. Specific dose separation guidelines for other tetracyclines are not presently available. No interaction is anticipated with parenteral administration of tetracyclines. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Typhoid Vaccine: Antibiotics may diminish the therapeutic effect of Typhoid Vaccine. Only the live attenuated Ty21a strain is affected. Management: Vaccination with live attenuated typhoid vaccine (Ty21a) should be avoided in patients being treated with systemic antibacterial agents. Use of this vaccine should be postponed until at least 3 days after cessation of antibacterial agents. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Verteporfin: Photosensitizing Agents may enhance the photosensitizing effect of Verteporfin. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Tetracyclines may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Food Interactions

Ethanol: Chronic ethanol ingestion may reduce the serum concentration of doxycycline.

Food: Doxycycline serum levels may be slightly decreased if taken with high-fat meal or milk. Administration with iron or calcium may decrease doxycycline absorption. May decrease absorption of calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and amino acids. Management: Administer Doryx and Doryx MPC without regard to meals. Administer Oracea and doxycycline 20 mg tablet on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.

Test Interactions

Injectable tetracycline formulations (if they contain large amounts of ascorbic acid) may result in a false-negative urine glucose using glucose oxidase tests (eg, Clinistix, Diastix, Tes-Tape); false elevations of urinary catecholamines with fluorescence

Genes of Interest

• Cytochrome P450 3A4

Monitoring Parameters

CBC, renal and liver function tests periodically with prolonged therapy. When used as part of alternative treatment for gonococcal infection, test of cure 7 days after dose (CDC [Workowski 2015]).

Patients with no risk factors for chronic Q fever should undergo clinical and serological evaluation 6 months after diagnosis of acute Q fever to identify possible progression to chronic disease. Postpartum women treated during pregnancy for acute Q fever, others who are at high risk for progression to chronic disease or when used as part of treatment for chronic Q fever infection unrelated to endocarditis or vascular infection (eg, osteoarticular infections or chronic hepatitis), assess serologic response at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after diagnosis of acute Q fever (or after delivery in pregnant women) (CDC 2013).

Advanced Practitioners Physical Assessment/Monitoring

Assess results of culture and sensitivity test and patient's allergy history prior to beginning therapy. Obtain CBC, renal function tests, and liver function tests periodically with prolonged therapy. IV: Infusion site must be closely monitored; extravasation can be very irritating to veins (use of central line is preferable). Test for C. difficile if patient develops diarrhea. If used for gonococcal infection, test for cure 7 days after dose. Follow up patients with Q fever per CDC guidelines: with no risk factors, evaluate 6 months after acute Q fever to identify possible progression to chronic disease. Others who are at high risk for progression to chronic disease, or when used as part of treatment for chronic Q fever, assess serologic response at 3, 5, 12, 18, and 24 months after diagnosis of acute Q fever, or after delivery in pregnant women.

Nursing Physical Assessment/Monitoring

Check ordered labs and report abnormalities. Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions. Closely monitor IV infusion site for signs of irritation and thrombophlebitis; use of a central venous access device is preferred. Monitor for severe or bloody diarrhea and send a specimen to the lab for C. difficile. Teach patient importance of adequate hydration and photosensitivity precautions. Instruct patient to have regular dental checkups.

Product Availability

LymePak (doxycycline tablets): FDA approved June 2018; anticipated availability is currently unknown. Information pertaining to this product within the monograph is pending revision. LymePak is indicated for the treatment of early Lyme disease due to Borrelia burgdorferi in adults and pediatric patients ≥8 years of age weighing ≥45 kg. Consult the prescribing information for additional information.

Dosage Forms Considerations

Morgidox kits contain doxycycline capsules 100 mg, plus AcuWash moisturizing Daily Cleanser

NizAzel Doxy kits contain doxycycline tablets 100 mg, plus NicAzel FORTE dietary supplement tablets

Dosage Forms: US

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product

Capsule, Oral, as hyclate [strength expressed as base]:

Morgidox: 50 mg, 100 mg [contains brilliant blue fcf (fd&c blue #1)]

Vibramycin: 100 mg [contains brilliant blue fcf (fd&c blue #1)]

Generic: 50 mg, 100 mg

Capsule, Oral, as monohydrate [strength expressed as base]:

Mondoxyne NL: 50 mg [contains fd&c yellow #10 (quinoline yellow)]

Mondoxyne NL: 75 mg [DSC]

Mondoxyne NL: 75 mg, 100 mg [contains fd&c yellow #10 (quinoline yellow)]

Monodox: 75 mg [DSC], 100 mg [DSC]

Okebo: 75 mg [DSC], 100 mg [DSC]

Generic: 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg

Capsule Delayed Release, Oral, as monohydrate [strength expressed as base]:

Oracea: 40 mg

Generic: 40 mg

Kit, Combination, as hyclate [strength expressed as base]:

Morgidox: 1 x 50 mg, 1 x 100 mg, 2 x 100 mg [contains brilliant blue fcf (fd&c blue #1), cetyl alcohol, edetate disodium]

Solution Reconstituted, Intravenous, as hyclate [strength expressed as base, preservative free]:

Doxy 100: 100 mg (1 ea)

Generic: 100 mg (1 ea)

Suspension Reconstituted, Oral, as monohydrate:

Generic: 25 mg/5 mL (60 mL)

Suspension Reconstituted, Oral, as monohydrate [strength expressed as base]:

Vibramycin: 25 mg/5 mL (60 mL) [contains brilliant blue fcf (fd&c blue #1), methylparaben, propylparaben; raspberry flavor]

Generic: 25 mg/5 mL (60 mL)

Syrup, Oral, as calcium [strength expressed as base]:

Vibramycin: 50 mg/5 mL (473 mL) [contains butylparaben, propylene glycol, propylparaben, sodium metabisulfite]

Vibramycin: 50 mg/5 mL (473 mL) [contains butylparaben, propylene glycol, propylparaben, sodium metabisulfite; raspberry-apple flavor]

Tablet, Oral, as hyclate [strength expressed as base]:

Acticlate: 75 mg [contains brilliant blue fcf (fd&c blue #1), fd&c yellow #6 (sunset yellow)]

Acticlate: 150 mg [scored; contains fd&c blue #2 (indigotine)]

TargaDOX: 50 mg [contains fd&c blue #2 (indigotine), fd&c yellow #6 (sunset yellow)]

Generic: 20 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg

Tablet, Oral, as monohydrate [strength expressed as base]:

Adoxa: 50 mg [DSC]

Adoxa: 75 mg [DSC] [contains fd&c yellow #10 aluminum lake, fd&c yellow #6 (sunset yellow)]

Adoxa: 100 mg [DSC]

Adoxa Pak 1/100: 100 mg [DSC] [contains fd&c yellow #10 aluminum lake, fd&c yellow #6 (sunset yellow)]

Adoxa Pak 2/100: 100 mg [DSC] [contains fd&c yellow #10 aluminum lake, fd&c yellow #6 (sunset yellow)]

Adoxa Pak 1/150: 150 mg [DSC] [contains fd&c yellow #6 (sunset yellow)]

Avidoxy: 100 mg [contains fd&c yellow #10 aluminum lake, fd&c yellow #6 aluminum lake]

Generic: 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg

Tablet Delayed Release, Oral, as hyclate [strength expressed as base]:

Doryx: 50 mg [contains corn starch]

Doryx: 80 mg, 200 mg [scored; contains corn starch]

Doryx MPC: 120 mg [contains corn starch]

Soloxide: 150 mg [scored]

Generic: 50 mg, 75 mg, 80 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg

Dosage Forms: Canada

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.

Capsule, Oral:

Periostat: 20 mg

Capsule, Oral, as hyclate [strength expressed as base]:

Generic: 100 mg

Capsule Delayed Release, Oral, as monohydrate [strength expressed as base]:

Apprilon: 40 mg

Tablet, Oral, as hyclate [strength expressed as base]:

Generic: 100 mg

Anatomic Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) Classification

• A01AB22
• J01AA02

Generic Available (US)

May be product dependent

Pricing: US

Capsule, delayed release (Doxycycline Oral)

40 mg (per each): $24.94

Capsule, delayed release (Oracea Oral)

40 mg (per each): $31.01

Capsules (Doxycycline Hyclate Oral)

50 mg (per each): $2.16 - $2.25

100 mg (per each): $0.38 - $9.62

Capsules (Doxycycline Monohydrate Oral)

50 mg (per each): $1.45 - $1.55

75 mg (per each): $16.40 - $16.92

100 mg (per each): $2.13 - $2.56

150 mg (per each): $24.65

Capsules (Mondoxyne NL Oral)

75 mg (per each): $15.20

100 mg (per each): $10.52

Capsules (Morgidox Oral)

100 mg (per each): $23.61

Capsules (Vibramycin Oral)

100 mg (per each): $1.08

Kit (Morgidox Combination)

1 x 100 mg (per each): $708.41

2 x 100 mg (per each): $1,131.72

Solution (reconstituted) (Doxy 100 Intravenous)

100 mg (per each): $25.20

Solution (reconstituted) (Doxycycline Hyclate Intravenous)

100 mg (per each): $30.20

Suspension (reconstituted) (Doxycycline Monohydrate Oral)

25 mg/5 mL (per mL): $0.38 - $0.44

Suspension (reconstituted) (Vibramycin Oral)

25 mg/5 mL (per mL): $0.82

Syrup (Vibramycin Oral)

50 mg/5 mL (per mL): $1.27

Tablet, EC (Doryx MPC Oral)

120 mg (per each): $15.00

Tablet, EC (Doryx Oral)

50 mg (per each): $14.22

80 mg (per each): $44.03

200 mg (per each): $52.64

Tablet, EC (Doxycycline Hyclate Oral)

50 mg (per each): $11.73 - $13.51

75 mg (per each): $10.22

80 mg (per each): $39.58

100 mg (per each): $13.12 - $13.15

150 mg (per each): $17.60

200 mg (per each): $23.72 - $50.01

Tablets (Acticlate Oral)

75 mg (per each): $44.10

150 mg (per each): $44.10

Tablets (Doxycycline Hyclate Oral)

20 mg (per each): $0.74 - $1.30

50 mg (per each): $13.20

75 mg (per each): $31.15 - $31.19

100 mg (per each): $0.84 - $6.15

150 mg (per each): $31.15 - $31.19

Tablets (Doxycycline Monohydrate Oral)

50 mg (per each): $2.89 - $3.36

75 mg (per each): $4.93 - $4.99

100 mg (per each): $4.23 - $4.92

150 mg (per each): $9.14

Tablets (TargaDOX Oral)

50 mg (per each): $16.48

Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits protein synthesis by binding with the 30S and possibly the 50S ribosomal subunit(s) of susceptible bacteria; may also cause alterations in the cytoplasmic membrane

20 mg tablets and capsules (Periostat [Canadian product]): Proposed mechanism: Has been shown to inhibit collagenase activity in vitro. Also has been noted to reduce elevated collagenase activity in the gingival crevicular fluid of patients with periodontal disease. Systemic levels do not reach inhibitory concentrations against bacteria.

Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics

Absorption: Oral: Almost completely absorbed from the GI tract; average peak plasma concentration may be reduced ~20% (30% for Doryx MPC) by high-fat meal or milk

Distribution: Widely into body tissues and fluids including synovial, pleural, prostatic, seminal fluids, and bronchial secretions; saliva, aqueous humor, and CSF penetration is poor

Protein binding: >90%

Metabolism: Not hepatic; partially inactivated in GI tract by chelate formation

Bioavailability: Reduced at high pH; may be clinically significant in patients with gastrectomy, gastric bypass surgery or who are otherwise deemed achlorhydric

Half-life elimination: 18 to 22 hours; End-stage renal disease: 18 to 25 hours

Time to peak, serum: Oral: Immediate release: 1.5 to 4 hours; delayed release: 2.8 to 3 hours

Excretion: Feces (30%); urine (23% to 40%)

Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics: Additional Considerations

Renal function impairment: Excretion by the kidneys may fall as low as 1% to 5% in 72 hours in patients with CrCl <10 mL/minute.

Dental Use

Treatment of periodontitis associated with presence of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (AA); adjunct to scaling and root planing to promote attachment level gain and to reduce pocket depth in adult periodontitis (systemic levels are subinhibitory against bacteria)

* See Uses in AHFS Essentials for additional information.

Local Anesthetic/Vasoconstrictor Precautions

No information available to require special precautions

Effects on Dental Treatment

Key adverse event(s) related to dental treatment: Occurrence of xerostomia (normal salivation resumes upon discontinuation); occurrence of nasal congestion, sinusitis, and nasopharyngitis; rare occurrence of glossitis and tooth discoloration (children). Opportunistic “superinfection” with Candida albicans; tetracyclines are not recommended for use during pregnancy or in children ≤8 years of age since they have been reported to cause enamel hypoplasia and permanent teeth discoloration. The use of tetracyclines should only be used in these patients if other agents are contraindicated or alternative antimicrobials will not eradicate the organism.

Effects on Bleeding

Hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia have been reported

Dental Usual Dosing

Adults: Oral: Treatment of periodontitis (refractory): 100-200 mg once daily for 21 days (Jolkovsky 2006). Note: A specific formulation (Periostat [available in Canada]) containing a subantimicrobial dosage is also available for use as an adjunct to scaling and root planing. In addition, doxycycline gel (Atridox) is available for subgingival application (see Doxycycline Hyclate Periodontal Extended-Release Liquid monograph).

Related Information

• Oral Medications That Should Not Be Crushed or Altered

Pharmacotherapy Pearls

Oracea, or Apprilon [Canadian product] capsules are not bioequivalent to other doxycycline products.

Index Terms

Doxycycline Calcium; Doxycycline Hyclate; Doxycycline Monohydrate; LymePak

FDA Approval Date

December 05, 1967

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Brand Names: International

Abraxil (CL); Adjusan (BE, NL); Agidox (LK); Alldox (ZW); Amermycin (HK); Apdox (BD); Asdoxin (ET); Azudoxat (DE); Bactidox (PH); Bassado (IT); Biodoxi (IN); Biomixin (MX); Biomoxin (CR, DO, GT, HN, NI, PA, SV); By-Mycin (IE); Ciclonal (MX); Clordox (BR); Cyclidox (ZA); Cyclindox (VN); Cytragen (PH); Dagramycine (LU); Dentacline (KR); Dentistar (KR); Deoxymykoin (CZ); Doc-100 (TZ); Doinmycin (TW); Dokat (TR); Doksiciklin (HR); Doksin (TR); Domiekn (CR); Domiken (DO, GT, HN, MX, NI, PA, SV); Doryx (AU, NZ); Dosil (ES); Dotur (UY); Doxat (CY, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LY, MT, OM, QA, SA, SY, VN, YE); Doxicap (ZW); Doxiclat (ES); Doxicor (ID); Doxikan (EG); Doximed (FI); Doximycin (FI); Doxin (PH, TH); Doxine (NZ); Doxipil (ES); Doxiplus (PE); Doxitin (LV); Doxman (LK); Doxsig (AU); Doxxkam (PH); Doxy (LB); Doxy 200 (LU); Doxy A (BD); Doxy Komb (LU); Doxy M (EE); Doxy SMB (LU); Doxy-1 (IN); Doxy-100 (DE, NZ); Doxybene (CZ, UA); Doxycap (HK, SG); Doxycin (SA); Doxyclin (ZW); Doxycline (LU, TH); Doxycyclin AL (HU); Doxycycline (BE); Doxycycline-Ethypharm (LU); Doxycycline-Eurogenerics (LU); Doxydar (BH, JO, QA, SA); Doxydox (EG); Doxyhexal (CZ, HU, LU); Doxylag (BB, BF, BJ, BM, BS, BZ, CI, CY, ET, GH, GM, GN, GY, IQ, IR, JM, JO, KE, KW, LR, LY, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, OM, SA, SC, SD, SL, SN, SR, SY, TN, TT, TZ, UG, YE, ZM, ZW); Doxylan (LV); Doxylcap (TH); Doxylets (LU); Doxylin (AU, IL, NO, NZ); Doxyline (SG); Doxylis (FR); Doxymycin (TW, ZA); Doxymycine (LU); Doxypharm (HU); Dumoxin (CY, ID, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LY, OM, SA, SY, YE); Duo Di (CN); Duradox (AE, BH, KW, QA); Efracea (BE, GB, IE, NL); Empadoxine (ET); Etidoxina (CO); Frakas (AU); Genobiotic-Doxi (MX); Grandoxy (AE); Granudoxy (CR, DO, FR, GT, HN, LU, NI, PA, SV); Hiramicin (HR); Impedox (BD); Interdoxin (ID); Lenteclin (ET); Madoxy (TH); Mardox (BD); Medomycin (BF, BJ, CI, ET, GH, GM, GN, KE, LR, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, MY, NE, NG, SC, SD, SG, SL, SN, TN, TW, TZ, UG, ZM, ZW); Medox (PH); Microdox (LK, ZW); Miraclin (IT); Monocin (KR); Monodox (CO); Oracea (ES); Periostat (GB); Policycline (TH); Radox (BF, BJ, CI, CY, ET, GH, GM, GN, IQ, IR, JO, KE, KW, LR, LY, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, OM, SA, SC, SD, SL, SN, SY, TN, TZ, UG, YE, ZM, ZW); Remycin (BH, MT, TR, TW); Retadox (LB); Retens (MT); Revidox (LK); Servidoxine (EC); Siadocin (TH); Sigadoxin (PT); Supracyclin (AT, CH, PE); Supramycina (EC, PY); Tabocine (AE, QA); Tarocin (KW); Tedoxy (PH); Tenutan (BB, BM, BS, BZ, GY, JM, SR, TT); Teradox (PH); Teradoxin (ET); Tolexine (FR, HK); Tolexine Ge (FR); Torymycin (TH); Tremesal (VE); Unidox (CY, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LY, NL, OM, PL, QA, RO, SA, SY, UA, YE); Unidoxy (KR); Veemycin (TH); Verboril (AR); Vibradox (DK, PT); Vibramicina (AR, CL, CO, MX, PE, PT, UY, VE); Vibramycin (AE, AT, AU, BB, BF, BG, BH, BJ, BM, BS, BZ, CH, CI, CY, DE, EG, ET, GB, GH, GM, GN, GR, GY, HK, HU, ID, IE, IQ, IR, JM, JO, KE, KW, LR, LY, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, MY, NE, NG, NL, OM, PH, PK, QA, RU, SA, SC, SD, SE, SL, SN, SR, SY, TH, TN, TT, TZ, UG, YE, ZA, ZM, ZW); Vibramycin N (KR); Vibramycine (FR); Vibratab (BE, LU); Vibraveineuse (FR); Vibravenos (AT, DE); Viclorax (PE); Vidoxy (KR); Vivradoxil (MX); Weibamycin (TW); Withamycin (TW); Xidox (MY); Yong Xi (CN); Zadorin (BB, BF, BJ, BM, BS, BZ, CI, CY, ET, GH, GM, GN, GY, IQ, IR, JM, JO, KE, KW, LR, LY, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, NE, NG, OM, SA, SC, SD, SL, SN, SR, SY, TN, TT, TZ, UG, YE, ZM, ZW)

Last Updated 10/16/20