Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic used for chest, skin and tick-borne infections, acne, and as malaria prevention. It should be taken sitting upright with water.
Typical dose — general reference only, NOT a prescription
Measure
Range
Category
Prescription
Adult dose
100 mg every 12–24 hours depending on the infection
Child (paediatric) dose
Avoid under 8 years (tooth staining) except for specific serious infections
What it is used for
Chest and sinus infections
Acne (long courses)
Tick-borne infections (e.g. scrub typhus)
Malaria prevention for travellers
Common brand names
India: Doxy-1, Minicycline, Doxt
Worldwide: Vibramycin, Doryx, Oracea
Common side effects
Nausea (take with food and water)
Sensitivity to sunlight
Throat irritation if not taken with enough water
Before taking it — precautions
Take with a full glass of water, sitting upright, not before lying down
Use sun protection
Separate from milk, antacids and iron
When to see a doctor urgently
Severe headache with vision changes (rare pressure rise)
Painful swallowing or chest pain
Severe allergy
Doses are a general reference, not a prescription. Doses shown are typical adult/paediatric references and vary with age, weight, kidney/liver function and the exact product. Paediatric doses are usually weight-based and must be set by a doctor. MedDroid cannot prescribe — always confirm doxycycline and your dose with a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack.
Frequently asked questions
Why take doxycycline with lots of water?
It can irritate or ulcerate the food pipe if it lodges there, so take it upright with a full glass of water and stay sitting for a while.
Can children take doxycycline?
It is usually avoided under 8 years because it can stain developing teeth, except for certain serious infections where the benefit outweighs this.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.