What is Doxycycline and what is it used for?

Doxycycline is from the tetracycline antibiotics series, broad spectrum antibiotics which can be used to treat a wide range of bacteria-caused infections including malaria.

How does it work?

Doxycycline targets this malaria parasite and kills it. It is used to prevent a malarial infection from developing, which is why it is important to start taking it before entering an area that has malaria-infected mosquitoes.

It is also important to continue taking it for up to 4 weeks after your return to fully ensure you.

How should I take Doxycycline?

• We advised you to take them with water or food.
• You should take them standing up or sitting up and not lie down for at least half an hour after taking a Doxycycline tablet.
• Take a daily dose of 100mg starting 1-2 days before travelling to a malaria endemic region, throughout your stay and continuing the treatment for 28 days after leaving the malaria prone area.
• You should avoid alcohol while you are taking Doxycycline tablets.

Which is better: Malarone or Doxycycline?

Doxycycline is only used for areas that are resistant to Chloroquine or with P. falciparum strains resistant to multiple drugs. Also, Doxycycline is cheaper, but has more side effects than Malarone.

You should start taking the medication 1-2 days before entering the malaria area, throughout the entire duration of your stay, then continue for another 4 weeks after leaving the malaria-affected area.

What are the side effects of Doxycycline?

It’s common to experience some side effects with antimalarial medication. Side effects of Doxycycline may include:

• Anxiety
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sensitivity to light

Can I take Doxycycline if I am pregnant?

You should not take Doxycycline if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless your doctor recommends it.

Information Leaflet

Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.

• View the patient information leaflet for Doxycycline Capsules BP 100mg.