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Writer's pictureTeresa Mendoza, PharmD

Med of the Week: Doxycycline



Doxycycline feature tooth with shades, sun and germs

We're nearly a month into summer, which means more fun in the sun and more exposure to UV rays! July is UV Safety Month, and we're shining a spotlight on Doxycycline, a common antibiotic that can make your skin extra sensitive to sunlight. While it's great for treating various infections, there are some important precautions dentists should know. Dive in to learn more!


Generic Name: Doxycycline

Brand Name(s): Vibramycin, Acticlate, Avidoxy, Doryx, Doryx MPC, Monodox, Morgidox, Oracea, Targadox, Periostat

Pronunciation: DOX i SYE kleen


About this drug:

  • Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic used to treat many kinds of bacterial infections, infections caused by lice, ticks, or mites, anthrax infection, and to prevent malaria.

  • It will not cure a common cold, flu, or viruses.


Dentistry-related tidbits:

  • This medication may cause xerostomia. Consider prescribing a fluoride supplement if the patient has a high rate of caries and increase the frequency of dental examinations.

  • Doxycycline may cause permanent tooth discoloration in children < 8 years old and reversible tooth discoloration in adults. Do not prescribe this medication to a patient who is pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or is breastfeeding.

  • Advise the patient to call their doctor or dental office if they develop severe watery or bloody diarrhea before taking any over-the-counter medications since there is an increased risk for C. difficile-associated infection. 

  • The anticonvulsant Carbamazepine in combination with Doxycycline may decrease Doxycycline levels and efficacy.

  • Doxycycline may decrease the efficacy of cephalosporin and penicillin antibiotics. 

  • The risk of intracranial hypertension and papilledema may increase when Doxycycline is combined with quinolone antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin.

  • Make sure the patient is not taking blood thinners before prescribing this medication to decrease the risk of GI bleeding. Before prescribing any medication, use the Rx Check tool to prevent potential drug interactions or adverse effects.


Fun facts:

  • Doxycycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that prevents bacterial growth by inhibiting protein synthesis.

  • Doxycycline causes photosensitivity. Patients should use sunscreen with SPF > 30.

  • This antibiotic is the #82 most commonly used prescription medication in the U.S., totaling over 8.5 million prescriptions in 2021.

  • This medication should not be prescribed for a patient taking Isotretinoin for acne as it may also increase the risk of intracranial hypertension and papilledema.

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