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Doxycycline
What is doxycycline?
Doxycycline (brand names: Vibramycin®, Oracea®, Monodox®, Periostat®, Doryx®, Acticlate®) is a tetracycline antibiotic used to treat certain infections in small animals, such as anaplasma (a tick-borne disease), heartworm disease, and periodontal (teeth and gum) disease.
Its use in cats, dogs, small mammals, reptiles, or birds to treat infections is “off label” or “extra label”. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is doxycycline given?
This medication takes effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours; however, visible effects may take a few days to be recognized. It is important to give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.
If you miss a dose, give it when you remember. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed, give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
The most common side effects include:
More serious side effects include:
Contact your veterinarian if any of these serious side effects occur. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
Doxycycline SHOULD NOT be used in pets that:
Doxycycline should be used with significant caution in pets that are in the last half of pregnancy.
Doxycycline should be used with caution in pets that:
The following medications should be used with caution when given with doxycycline:
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Feb 15, 2024.
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