Health
Doxcycline 30 minute rule to follow if you're taking the antibiotic
Key Points
Doxcycline 30 minute rule to follow if you're taking the antibiotic Doxycycline is a commonly-prescribed antibiotic Doxycycline is a widely-prescribed antibiotic used to treat or prevent certain infections, and is only available with a doctor's prescription. The medication is frequently given to those suffering from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), chest infections, gum infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). It can also be prescribed for acne or other skin conditions, or to...
Doxcycline 30 minute rule to follow if you're taking the antibiotic
Doxycycline is a commonly-prescribed antibiotic
Doxycycline is a widely-prescribed antibiotic used to treat or prevent certain infections, and is only available with a doctor's prescription.
The medication is frequently given to those suffering from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), chest infections, gum infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). It can also be prescribed for acne or other skin conditions, or to prevent malaria when travelling to parts of the world where the disease is prevalent. The antibiotic typically comes in tablets or capsules to be swallowed, though there is also a dissolvable tablet that can be mixed with water to drink.
The dosage and duration of treatment depends on the condition being treated. Most patients are required to take it once or twice daily for a period of days or weeks.
Those taking doxycycline should be aware of an important 30-minute rule to avoid potential digestive discomfort or damage. NHS guidance states that doxycycline should be taken at the same time each day, swallowed with a full glass of water while sitting or standing upright, and that patients should not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking it to prevent irritation.
It is crucial to complete the full course of medication, even if symptoms begin to improve beforehand. Should you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless your next scheduled dose is imminent.
If your next dose is nearly due, simply skip the missed one and resume your regular schedule. Never double up on doses to compensate for one you've missed.
Should you discover you've taken too much doxycycline, contact NHS 111 immediately. "If you're told to go to A&E, do not drive. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance. Bring the doxycycline packet or leaflet inside it, any remaining medicine, and any other medicines you take."
Frequently reported side effects of doxycycline include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and a rash. These are not all of the possible side effects, however, and you should carefully read the leaflet supplied with your medication.