Doxycycline

Doxycycline is a member of the tetracycline antibiotics group and is commonly used to treat a variety of infections. Brand names include Monodox®, Periostat®, Vibramycin®, Vibra-Tabs®, Doryx®, and Atridox® (topical doxycycline hyclate for gum disease). more...

Indicated uses

As well as the general indications for all members of the tetracycline antibiotics group, Doxycycline is frequently used to treat chronic prostatitis, sinusitis, syphilis, pelvic inflammatory disease, acne and rosacea. In addition it is used in the treatment and prophylaxis of Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) and malaria.

It is also effective against Yersinia pestis (the infectious agent of bubonic plague) and is prescribed for the treatment of Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Cautions and Side efects

Are as for other members of the tetracycline antibiotics group. However the 10% risk of photosensitivity skin reactions is of particular importance for those intending long-term use for malaria prophylaxis.

Unlike some other members of the group, it may be used in those with renal impairment.

Experimental applications

At subantimicrobial doses, doxycycline is an inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases, and has been used in various experimental systems for this purpose.

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