Doxycycline (Respiratory) (Doxycycline 100mg)
For Chest Infections & COPD Exacerbations
First-line antibiotic for chest infections.
In brief…
Doxycycline is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for lower respiratory tract infections and infective COPD exacerbations. It covers a broad range of respiratory pathogens, is well-absorbed orally, and has the convenience of once or twice daily dosing. Many COPD patients keep a rescue pack at home.

Doxycycline (Respiratory) (Doxycycline 100mg)
For Chest Infections & COPD Exacerbations
Strength
£20.99 (8 capsules) per pack
Delivery
In post tomorrow. Tracked delivery, arrives in two working days.
What you need to know
Lower respiratory tract infections, infective COPD exacerbations, community-acquired pneumonia (mild), and chronic bronchitis exacerbations.
Doxycycline is a tetracycline antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis. It has broad-spectrum activity against the common respiratory pathogens including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and atypical organisms like Mycoplasma and Chlamydophila.
Adults with lower respiratory tract infections or infective COPD exacerbations. Not suitable for children under 12 (can affect developing teeth and bones) or in pregnancy.
Order online and we review your request. A prescriber checks your consultation form for clinical appropriateness and contacts you if anything else is needed. Once approved, your medication is dispensed and delivered to your door.
Tracked: Tracked delivery, arrives in two working days - Free
When it arrives: Every order is sent tracked. Where this page says in post today, it goes out today. Where it says in post tomorrow, it goes out the next working day. On the rare occasions a medicine is unavailable, we will contact you to talk about timing and alternatives.
We dispense clinically equivalent generic medications where available. Prices shown are for the generic version. If you prefer the branded version, let us know in your order form and we will confirm any price difference.
£20.99 for a course of 8 capsules.
Common: diarrhoea, nausea, rash, abdominal discomfort. Amoxicillin/co-amoxiclav: common rash (especially with viral infections). Metronidazole: metallic taste, nausea. Doxycycline: photosensitivity, oesophageal irritation. Rare but serious: Clostridium difficile colitis (persistent diarrhoea), anaphylaxis (penicillins), tendon damage (ciprofloxacin).
Penicillin allergy: do not take amoxicillin, co-amoxiclav, or flucloxacillin. Ciprofloxacin: avoid in tendon disorders, epilepsy, myasthenia gravis. Metronidazole: avoid alcohol during treatment and for 48 hours after. Doxycycline: avoid in children under 12 (teeth staining).
Metronidazole: severe reaction with alcohol (disulfiram-like). Warfarin: many antibiotics alter INR - more frequent monitoring needed. Ciprofloxacin: avoid dairy, calcium, iron, and antacids within 2 hours. Oral contraceptives: no evidence that most antibiotics reduce efficacy (except rifampicin).
Penicillins (amoxicillin, flucloxacillin): generally considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Metronidazole: avoid in 1st trimester if possible. Doxycycline/lymecycline: contraindicated in pregnancy (teeth/bone effects). Ciprofloxacin: avoid (joint cartilage risk). Nitrofurantoin: avoid at term (neonatal haemolysis). Trimethoprim: avoid in 1st trimester (folate antagonist).
Take with plenty of water, sitting upright (can cause oesophageal irritation if stuck). Take with food if it causes nausea. Causes sun sensitivity - use sun protection. Can reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill. Complete the full course even if you feel better.
Safety information
Driving & machinery
Unlikely to affect driving for most antibiotics. Metronidazole and ciprofloxacin may cause dizziness - do not drive if affected.
Age restriction
Varies by antibiotic. Amoxicillin: all ages. Doxycycline/lymecycline: not under 12. Ciprofloxacin: generally adults only. Always use as prescribed - complete the full course.
Storage
Store below 25°C in a dry place. Keep out of reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date.
We're here to help
Not sure if this is right for you? Book a consultation. Online or in-person.
Report side effects
If you experience any side effects, report them via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme or call 0800 731 6789.
Regulatory information
LoveMyLife Pharmacy is GPhC registered. View our regulatory information · Complaints procedure