How is doxycycline taken?
When taken to prevent malaria, doxycycline needs to be taken at a dosage of one 100mg tablet per day. Each doxycycline capsule should be swallowed with a full glass of water, whilst sitting or standing up straight. Take the capsule at approximately the same time each day. Allow at least thirty minutes after taking the tablet before going to bed or lying down as this helps prevent stomach problems such as ulcers.
If you experience stomach pain or nausea when taking the capsule, you may find that taking it with a meal helps prevent this side effect.
You need to begin taking doxycycline tablets two days before travelling to a malaria area to be protected. After returning from a risk area, you need to continue taking the daily tablet for four weeks. This is to ensure that the disease does not break out if you have been infected during your time abroad.
What if I forget to take a tablet?
If you forget to take your daily tablet, just take it as soon as you remember and then take the next dose at the correct time, but do not take a double dose if you have completely forgotten to take one dose.