Doxycycline Monohydrate Uses

Doxycycline monohydrate belongs to a group called tetracycline drugs. It is used to treat bacterial infections such as lung, gastrointestinal, urinary tract, and sexually transmitted infections. It is also used to treat skin conditions such as acne and rosacea. In addition, doxycycline monohydrate is used for the prevention of malaria. This antibiotic is also used for the treatment and/or prevention of anthrax, tularemia, and plague, which may be spread on purpose during bioterror attacks. 

There may be other uses of doxycycline monohydrate. Your pharmacist or doctor can give you further drug information.

Doxycycline Monohydrate Mechanism of Action

Doxycycline monohydrate works by preventing bacteria from multiplying and spreading in the body. When used for acne, in addition to killing bacteria, it also reduces natural oily substances in the skin that cause acne. In rosacea patients, doxycycline monohydrate decreases inflammation.

Doxycycline Monohydrate Doses

Doxycycline monohydrate is available as 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg tablets and capsules, and a 25 mg/5 mL oral suspension. The dose depends on the condition being treated. Typical doses in adults and children are as follows:

Adults: The usual dose of doxycycline is 200 mg on day 1 of treatment (taken as 100 mg twice a day or 50 mg four times a day). This is followed by 100 mg per day on subsequent days, taken as a single dose or 50 mg twice a day. For more severe infections, 100 mg twice a day may be prescribed. 

Pediatric patients above 8 years of age: The usual dosage in pediatric patients weighing 100 pounds (45 kg) or less is 2 mg per lb of body weight in two divided doses on day 1 of treatment. This is followed by 1 mg per lb as a single daily dose or in two divided doses as a maintenance dose. For more severe infections, up to 2 mg per lb of body weight may be prescribed. For pediatric patients with a body weight over 100 pounds (45 kg), the usual adult dose is used.