About Doxycycline

• How does Doxycycline works?

  Doxycycline is thought to stop malaria parasite from growing and also kills it. Malaria gets into your body if you're bitten by an infected mosquito. 

• How do I take Doxycycline?

  Take one tablet daily with a large glass of water, at the same time each day. You should start taking the tablets two days before you go into the malaria risk area, keep taking them while you're away and then for four weeks when you get back. 

• What happens if I forget to take a pill?

  Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember then carry on as before. Never take two doses at the same time and be sure to take extra anti-mosquito precautions as the treatment may be less effective. Remember to report any feverish illness promptly to a doctor.

• What are the side effects of taking Doxycycline?

  Side effects include: nausea, diarrhoea, indigestion, a sore mouth, and thrush. Rarer side effects include inflammation of the liver and digestive tract. Doxycycline can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so you must use adequate sun protection and avoid excessive sun exposure. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid taking this medicine as it may damage a growing foetus.

  Doxycycline can interact with certain medications, so please give us a full list of medicines you are taking when asked.

  To minimise your chance of catching malaria and protect against serious side effects, please read the patient information leaflet accompanying the medication carefully.