Treat Sinusitis With Doxycycline
Learn how Doxycycline treats Sinusitis, how to use it safely, who it's suitable for, and what results to expect. When clinically appropriate, our trained clinicians can assess your symptoms online and provide treatment without needing a GP appointment.
MEDICAL INFORMATION
Doxycycline Key Facts
Who Manufactures Doxycycline?
Doxycycline is manufactured by various MHRA approved generic manufacturers.
What Form is Doxycycline available in?
Doxycycline is available as capsules or dispersible tablets.
How do I store Doxycycline?
Store Doxycycline at room temperature, below 25° C, away from excess moisture and heat, in the original package.
What is Doxycycline used for?
Doxycycline is used for the treatment of acute bacterial sinusitis (rhinosinusitis) under the NHS England commissioned Pharmacy First service.
How does Doxycycline work?
Doxycycline is an antibiotic that stops bacteria from growing and spreading.
When will I feel better and what should I do if I do not get better?
You should begin to feel better within 3 to 5 days of starting Doxycycline. If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, call your doctor.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Doxycycline?
It's best not to drink alcohol with Doxycycline because it can stop it working properly.
Do I need to take Doxycycline with food?
Doxycycline may be taken with or without food, but you're less likely to feel sick if you take it with food.
Who can and cannot take Doxycycline?
You may take Doxycycline if you meet the inclusion criteria for sinusitis for the Pharmacy First service, but may not take Doxycycline if you meet the exclusion criteria for sinusitis for the Pharmacy First service.
How often do I need to take Doxycycline?
Children, 12 to 17 years of age and adults, will need to take 200mg as a single dose on the first day and then 100mg once daily for 4 days.
What are the side effects of Doxycycline?
Side effects of Doxycycline include diarrhoea, hypersensitivity reactions, headache, nausea, vomiting, photosensitivity skin reactions, rash, urticaria, hypotension, pericarditis, tachycardia, dyspnoea and peripheral oedema.
Are there any Interactions of Doxycycline with other drugs?
Doxycycline interacts with ciclosporin, acitretin, alitretinoin, isotretinoin, tretinoin, lithium and the Typhoid vaccine.
Other important information about Doxycycline
Take Doxycycline at regular intervals (ideally the same time each day) and finish the course. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light (including sunbeds and sun lamps) and seek medical advice in the event of an adverse reaction or if any other new symptoms develop.
Does Doxycycline interfere with conception and contraception?
Doxycycline does not affect fertility in men or women and does not stop any type of contraception from working, however if Doxycycline makes you vomit or have severe diarrhoea for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy.
Can I use Doxycycline when breast feeding?
Doxycycline is not recommended during breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in small amounts and the calcium in your milk may stick to the Doxycycline so your baby may not absorb very much. If Doxycycline is used long-term, there is a chance it could affect teeth and bone development in your child. Doxycycline is excluded from the Pharmacy First service if you are breastfeeding.
Can I use Doxycycline if I am pregnant or planning to become pregnant?
Doxycycline is not recommended during pregnancy. It can affect tooth and bone development in your baby. Doxycycline is excluded from the Pharmacy First service if you are pregnant or suspect you are pregnant.
Medical Disclaimer
NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.
The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.
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FAQs
Answers to Popular Questions About How Doxycycline Treats Sinusitis
What is Doxycycline and how is it used for acute sinusitis?
Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic that can be used to treat acute bacterial sinusitis. It is an alternative first-line option to phenoxymethylpenicillin per NICE guidance. Doxycycline has good tissue penetration into the sinuses and is effective against the common bacteria causing sinusitis. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, a pharmacist can assess sinusitis and supply doxycycline without a GP appointment.
What is the dose of Doxycycline for sinusitis?
Adults: 200 mg on day 1, then 100 mg once daily for a total course of 5 days. Take with plenty of water, sitting upright. Take with or after food to reduce stomach irritation. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking the dose to prevent oesophageal irritation. Do not take with dairy products, antacids, or iron supplements — separate by at least 2 hours.
Can I get Doxycycline for sinusitis through Pharmacy First?
Yes, the NHS Pharmacy First service allows pharmacists to assess acute sinusitis and supply doxycycline where antibiotics are clinically indicated. The pharmacist will evaluate symptoms, duration, and severity. This is a free NHS service.
What are the side effects of Doxycycline?
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, and photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight — use SPF 30+ sunscreen). Oesophageal irritation can occur if tablets are not taken with enough water or if lying down too soon. Do not use doxycycline during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in children under 12.
Who should not take Doxycycline for sinusitis?
Doxycycline should not be used in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or children under 12 years (risk of tooth discolouration and bone effects). It should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment or lupus (may worsen the condition). If these apply, the pharmacist will select an alternative antibiotic.
Experienced a Side Effect?
Report to Yellow Card (UK) or MedWatch (US)
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