£

Doxycycline

 
Maximum Quantity Allowed:
100mg
37 capsules (1 week trip)
44 capsules (2 week trip)
51 capsules (3 week trip)
58 capsules (4 week trip)
65 capsules (5 week trip)
72 capsules (6 week trip)
86 capsules (8 week trip)
114 capsules (12 week trip)
212 capsules (6 month trip)
400 capsules (1 year trip)

It is widely used by travellers to prevent malaria, being one of the three primary antimalarial medications recommended for malaria prophylaxis. Additionally, in certain cases, it is administered in combination with quinine to treat active malaria infections.

Supply is at the healthcare professional's discretion.

Product supplied may be from a different manufacturer

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Description

How does it work?

Doxycycline prevents malaria by targeting and eliminating the malaria parasite in the bloodstream, effectively disrupting its development and proliferation. When an infected mosquito bites a person, it transmits the malaria parasite into the human bloodstream.

Doxycycline acts to kill the parasite during this stage and has a partial effect on the liver stage of the parasite’s life cycle, providing protection before the parasite reaches the blood stage.

To ensure effective prevention, it is crucial to begin taking doxycycline before entering an area with malaria-infected mosquitoes and to continue the medication for up to 4 weeks after returning.

 

Who is at risk of malaria?

Malaria is prevalent in certain tropical and sub-tropical regions, primarily where mosquitoes that carry the malaria parasite are common. The disease is found in areas across South America, Southern Asia, and Africa.

The risk of malaria can vary depending on the specific region and the time of year.

It is essential for travellers to assess the malaria risk for their particular destination well in advance of their trip.

For tailored advice, consult resources such as the NHS Scotland Fit for Travel website or contact us, we can provide information on the most suitable antimalarial medication based on the country you are visiting and the prevailing risk factors.

Warnings

During a consultation with Pharmacy Advance, adults will need to complete an online assessment questionnaire to determine their suitability for antimalarial medication.

You should avoid taking doxycycline without further consultation with your GP if you:

  • Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or expect to become pregnant or breastfeeding during your trip or within 4 weeks after.
  • Have a known sensitivity to tetracycline antibiotics.
  • Have severe liver or kidney conditions.
  • Have a history of lupus, porphyria, or myasthenia gravis.
  • Suffer from frequent diarrhoea.
  • Are undergoing treatment for syphilis.

 

Doxycycline can cause permanent discolouration and damage to developing teeth, so it should not be used after 15 weeks of pregnancy or in children under 12 years old.

For any extra information, please contact your healthcare provider or contact us.

Directions

ONE capsule to be taken daily. Start 2 days before entering the malaria zone and continue taking for FOUR weeks after returning. It is essential the course is completed.

Doxycycline should always be taken with food and ideally while standing or sitting upright, rather than immediately before lying down. This helps prevent acid reflux symptoms that can occur with the medication.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient 

Doxycycline 

Inactive Ingredients

Capsule contents: hypromellose, sodium lauryl sulphate, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium stearate.

Capsule shell: gelatin, titanium dioxide (E171), Brilliant Blue (E133), and Iron Oxide Yellow (E172).

 

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Doxycycline?

Doxycycline, like other antimalarial medications, can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

  • Anxiety
  • Nausea & vomiting
  • Thrush
  • Heartburn
  • Increased light sensitivity, which may result in sunburn. 

Taking doxycycline with food can help minimise nausea.

As with all medications, individual reactions can vary, and a comprehensive list of frequent side effects is provided in the manufacturer's patient information leaflet included with the doxycycline capsules. You can also view them online here