Other names

Doxycycline is sometimes known as Vibramycin

What is Doxycycline for?

Doxycycline is an antibiotic. This medicine will help to clear your infection.

How much should I take?

You will take one or two capsules each day. The label on the bottle will tell you how many to take.

How should I take the capsules?

Take the capsules with a full glass of water when you are sitting or standing. If you take them lying down the capsules may stick in your throat or gullet. Try to take the capsules at about the same time each day.

What if I forget a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember. If you forget until it is time for the next dose, miss out the one you forgot. Do not double up.

How long should I take the capsules for?

Usually for one or two weeks but sometimes longer. You must finish all the capsules given to you. If you do not, the infection may come back.

Are there any side-effects?

Most medicines can cause side-effects. Doxycycline may make you feel sick or even be sick. This problem will be reduced if you take the capsules at the same time as some food. If you get diarrhoea which is severe whilst taking the capsules go back to the doctor.

Doxycycline may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. If you are going out in bright sunlight, you should cover your skin with clothing or wear a total sunblock cream. Do not use sunbeds or sunlamps whilst you are taking this medicine and avoid very bright sunlight.

Can I take other medicines?

Most medicines are safe to take with doxycycline. However, iron tablets and indigestion mixtures do not mix well with doxycycline. Do not take iron tablets or indigestion mixtures or tablets at the same time as doxycycline. Leave about two hours before and after you take the doxycycline. It may affect the working of the combined oral contraceptive pill though of course you are strongly advised not to have sex until the infection has cleared.

Can I drink alcohol?

Yes it is safe to drink small amounts of alcohol with doxycycline. However, your doctor may tell you not to drink any alcohol because of your condition. If this is so, follow his advice.