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Doxycycline Uses

Common doxycycline uses include the treatment of acne, bacterial infections, anthrax infections, and the prevention of malaria. Doxycycline should not be used in children under the age of 8, because permanent discoloration and altered development of teeth may occur. Off-label doxycycline uses include the treatment of infections that are resistant to another antibiotic known as vancomycin.

 

Doxycycline Uses: An Overview

Doxycycline is a prescription antibiotic licensed to treat a number of infections. Some of these doxycycline uses include:
 
 
Bacterial Infections
Doxycycline can be used to treat a number of different types of infections caused by bacteria. It is most commonly used to treat infections such as:
 
Doxycycline is also used to treat several uncommon bacterial infections. It also may be substituted in place of penicillin to treat common infections in those people who are allergic to that particular drug.
 
Acne
For people with moderate to severe acne, doxycycline may be prescribed. It is thought to help control acne by curbing the growth of bacteria and reducing inflammation.
 
Malaria Prevention
Malaria is an infection that is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. If contracted, malaria can be a very serious illness and is often difficult to treat. Because malaria presents a number of problems, it is much easier to prevent the infection from occurring rather than treating an active infection. Doxycycline can be used to prevent malaria. It is also used to treat malaria infections, usually in combination with another medication.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;