Doxycycline is supplied in 50 mg, 100 mg. The standard approach is 100 mg twice daily, or 50–100 mg daily for acne
Strength and use
| Strength | Typical role |
|---|---|
| 50 mg | Starting or low-dose maintenance |
| 100 mg | Standard maintenance dose |
Titration path
- 1
Step 1: initiate
Begin at the lowest useful strength of 50 mg.
- 2
Step 2: assess
Review after the onset window of acne response over 6–12 weeks; infection in 48–72 hours.
- 3
Step 3: escalate
Move up one strength only if the response is partial and tolerance is good.
- 4
Step 4: maintain
Hold at the lowest effective dose for acne, respiratory infection, malaria prophylaxis and STIs and review periodically.
Key takeaways
- Standard dosing: 100 mg twice daily, or 50–100 mg daily for acne
- Dosing interval: 12–24 hour dosing.
- Never double up after a missed dose: resume the normal schedule.
- Store below 25 °C, protect from light to protect potency across the shelf life.
Missed doses and adherence
If a dose is missed and the next one is close, skip it. Doubling increases the risk of photosensitivity without improving outcomes. Blister packaging and clear dispensing labels measurably improve adherence on capsule / tablet lines.
Doxycycline at a glance
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Drug class | tetracycline antibiotic |
| Common brand | Vibramycin |
| Licensed use | acne, respiratory infection, malaria prophylaxis and STIs |
| Available strengths | 50 mg, 100 mg |
| Dosage form | capsule / tablet |
| Typical onset | acne response over 6–12 weeks; infection in 48–72 hours |
| Duration / dosing interval | 12–24 hour dosing |
| Storage | below 25 °C, protect from light |
