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Oral tetracycline antibiotic

Doxycycline (COPD Exacerbation / CAP)

Brand names: Vibramycin-D, Doxycycline (generic)

This is doxycycline, a tetracycline antibacterial used for COPD exacerbations and community-acquired pneumonia, including cover for some atypical pathogens. It is a common oral first-line option in milder respiratory infection.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

Doxycycline inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding the 30S ribosomal subunit, giving broad activity that includes typical respiratory bacteria and atypicals such as Mycoplasma and Chlamydophila. Its effect is bacteriostatic.

Prescribing in practice

  • It is contraindicated in pregnancy and in children under twelve years because tetracyclines deposit in developing bone and teeth, causing permanent discoloration; advise on photosensitivity and oesophageal irritation.
  • Absorption is reduced by calcium, iron, antacids, and dairy products, which should be separated from dosing.
  • Use with caution in hepatic impairment and review interaction with anticoagulants.

Monitoring

Monitor clinical response and counsel proactively about sun exposure and swallowing the dose correctly to limit adverse effects.

Counselling the patient

  • Swallow with plenty of water while sitting or standing upright, and not just before lying down.
  • Avoid taking it at the same time as indigestion remedies, iron, or dairy, and use sun protection.
  • Complete the full course as prescribed.

Evidence & guidelines

NICE guidance on COPD exacerbations and community-acquired pneumonia includes doxycycline among recommended oral antibiotic options.

Reference: NICE NG120 Pneumonia; NICE NG115 COPD; NICE CKS Chest Infection; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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