Dovicin 100 mg capsules – doxycycline antibiotic for bacterial infections

Dovicin 100 mg is an antibiotic containing the active substance doxycycline. It belongs to the tetracycline group of antibiotics and is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria and other microorganisms susceptible to doxycycline.

Dovicin does not work against viruses and should not be used for a cold, influenza or another viral infection. The diagnosis, dose and duration of treatment must be determined by a doctor.

Dovicin 100 mg – what is it used for and how should it be taken?

What is Dovicin used for?

Depending on the doctor’s assessment, doxycycline may be used to treat certain:

• respiratory infections, including some forms of bronchitis, pneumonia and sinusitis;
• urinary tract infections;
• eye infections;
• sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydial infections;
• infections transmitted by ticks or lice;
• early stages of Lyme disease;
• other infections caused by microorganisms susceptible to doxycycline.

In specific circumstances, doxycycline may also be used to prevent or treat certain tropical infections. Such use requires prior medical assessment and should not be started independently before travelling.

How should Dovicin be taken?

• Swallow the capsule whole with at least 100 mL of water.
• Take the medicine while sitting or standing.
• Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the capsule.
• It is preferable to take it in the morning or at least one hour before going to bed.
• Do not open or chew the capsule.
• If stomach discomfort occurs, the medicine may be taken with food according to professional advice.
• Avoid alcohol during treatment because it may reduce the effect of doxycycline.

The usual schedule stated in the patient leaflet may involve two capsules on the first day followed by one capsule daily. Two capsules daily may be prescribed for more severe infections. This schedule is not suitable for every infection; the exact dose and treatment duration must be prescribed by a doctor.

If a dose is missed: take it when remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not take two doses together.

When should Dovicin not be taken?

Do not take the medicine:

• if you are allergic to doxycycline, another tetracycline or any of the ingredients;
• during pregnancy or when planning a pregnancy;
• during breastfeeding;
• if you have a condition associated with difficulty swallowing;
• in children under eight years of age unless a doctor considers it essential.

Doxycycline is generally avoided during tooth development because of the risk of permanent tooth discolouration and effects on dental enamel. In severe or life-threatening infections, a doctor may decide that the benefit outweighs the risk.

Special warnings and precautions

Tell the doctor before treatment if you have:

• liver or kidney disease;
• myasthenia gravis;
• systemic lupus erythematosus;
• heartburn, oesophageal inflammation or difficulty swallowing;
• a history of severe or prolonged diarrhoea during antibiotic treatment;
• pancreatic disease;
• severe headaches associated with blurred or otherwise disturbed vision.

Doxycycline may increase sensitivity to sunlight and ultraviolet radiation. Avoid intense sunlight and sunbeds and use appropriate sun protection during treatment.

Interactions with medicines, minerals and supplements

Antacids and products containing iron, zinc or bismuth may reduce the absorption and effectiveness of doxycycline. They should not be taken at the same time as Dovicin. Ask a doctor or pharmacist about the required interval.

Tell the doctor if you use:

• warfarin or another anticoagulant;
• carbamazepine, phenytoin or barbiturates;
• penicillin antibiotics;
• oral contraceptives;
• isotretinoin or another retinoid;
• methoxyflurane;
• antacids or supplements containing iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium or bismuth.

Possible side effects

Possible adverse effects include:

• nausea and vomiting;
• heartburn, abdominal pain or discomfort;
• diarrhoea;
• irritation, inflammation or ulceration of the oesophagus;
• rash, itching or hives;
• increased sensitivity to sunlight;
• headache or visual disturbances;
• fungal infections during or after antibiotic treatment;
• changes in liver function or blood-cell counts.

If more Dovicin has been taken than prescribed

Contact a doctor or the nearest emergency department immediately and take the medicine pack with you. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

How to store Dovicin

• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Store below 25°C.
• Keep in the original packaging to protect it from light and moisture.
• Do not use after the expiry date.
• Return unused medicine to a pharmacy that collects pharmaceutical waste.

Composition

Each hard capsule contains 100 mg of doxycycline as doxycycline hyclate.

The excipients include lactose monohydrate, maize starch, sodium lauryl sulphate, colloidal anhydrous silica and magnesium stearate. Patients with an intolerance to certain sugars should consult a doctor before use.

Microbiota support during antibiotic treatment:

• PharmaS Floriotic Boulardii – 10 capsules
• Lactibiane ATB – 10 capsules
• Multilac Bulardi – 10 capsules

Official sources:

• ALIMS – Patient Information Leaflet for Dovicin 100 mg
• ALIMS – Summary of Product Characteristics for Dovicin 100 mg

The official patient information leaflet was last approved in October 2019. Information reviewed and prepared on 1 August 2026.