Antibiotic (Tetracycline)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Doxycycline is an antibiotic that works by stopping bacteria from growing and multiplying in your body, which helps your immune system fight off infections more effectively.
Binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit, inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and resulting in bacteriostatic activity against a broad spectrum of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms, as well as atypical pathogens including Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, and Plasmodium species.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For most infections, take one 100 mg capsule twice a day (morning and evening) for 7 to 14 days depending on the infection. Swallow the capsule with a full glass of water and take it with food to avoid stomach upset. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking it, as it can irritate your throat. Common brands in Nigeria include Doxin, Aldox, Doxycap, and Droximicin.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two capsules at once to make up for the missed dose.
Important for antibiotics
Always complete the full course even if you feel better. Stopping early can cause the infection to return and become drug-resistant.
Always complete the full course of doxycycline even if you feel better — stopping early can make the infection come back stronger and harder to treat. Buy only from registered pharmacies and look for trusted brands like Doxin, Aldox, or Doxycap — do not buy from roadside sellers or open market vendors as fake drugs are common. Avoid prolonged sun exposure while taking this drug, and use sunscreen or cover up when going outside.
Do not take doxycycline with antacids, iron supplements (like blood tonics), or calcium/milk products — they block the drug from working properly. Wait at least 2 hours between them. Doxycycline can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, so use additional protection. Avoid alcohol as it can reduce how well the drug works and increase side effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Doxycycline with your other drugs?
Doxycycline is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it can harm the baby's teeth and bones. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, tell your doctor so they can give you a safer alternative.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can degrade this drug quickly. Do not store in the bathroom where there is humidity. Keep out of reach of children. Never use doxycycline that has expired, as expired doxycycline can become toxic and damage your kidneys.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Doxycycline?
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