Can doxycycline effectively treat urinary tract infections. What are the pros and cons of using doxycycline for UTIs. How does doxycycline compare to other antibiotics for UTI treatment. What are the potential side effects and precautions when taking doxycycline for a UTI.

Understanding Doxycycline and Its Uses

Doxycycline is a versatile antibiotic belonging to the tetracycline class of drugs. It is widely prescribed for various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, skin conditions, and sexually transmitted diseases. However, its efficacy in treating urinary tract infections (UTIs) is a topic of interest for many patients and healthcare providers.

Is doxycycline commonly used to treat UTIs? While not typically the first-line treatment for uncomplicated UTIs, doxycycline can be effective against certain bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. Its broad-spectrum activity makes it a potential option when other antibiotics are unsuitable or ineffective.

Key Features of Doxycycline

• Broad-spectrum antibiotic
• Available in various formulations (tablets, capsules, liquid)
• Generally well-tolerated
• Effective against many types of bacteria
• Can be used for both gram-positive and gram-negative infections

Efficacy of Doxycycline in UTI Treatment

Does doxycycline effectively treat UTIs? The efficacy of doxycycline in treating urinary tract infections can vary depending on the specific bacteria causing the infection. It has shown effectiveness against some common UTI-causing pathogens, including certain strains of E. coli.

However, it’s important to note that doxycycline is not typically the first choice for uncomplicated UTIs. Other antibiotics, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole or nitrofurantoin, are often preferred due to their targeted activity against urinary tract pathogens and better urinary concentration.

Factors Affecting Doxycycline’s Effectiveness for UTIs

1. Bacterial strain causing the infection
2. Antibiotic resistance patterns
3. Patient’s medical history and allergies
4. Severity and location of the infection (lower vs. upper urinary tract)
5. Presence of underlying conditions or complications

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Doxycycline for UTIs

When considering doxycycline for UTI treatment, it’s crucial to weigh its potential benefits against possible drawbacks. Understanding these factors can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment options.

Advantages of Doxycycline for UTIs

• Broad-spectrum activity against various bacteria
• Generally well-tolerated by most patients
• Can be effective when other antibiotics are contraindicated
• May be useful for complicated or recurrent UTIs
• Can treat concurrent infections (e.g., chlamydia) if present

Disadvantages of Doxycycline for UTIs

• Not the first-line treatment for uncomplicated UTIs
• May not achieve optimal urinary concentrations
• Potential for photosensitivity and gastrointestinal side effects
• Contraindicated in pregnancy and young children
• May interact with certain medications and supplements

Comparing Doxycycline to Other UTI Antibiotics

How does doxycycline stack up against other commonly prescribed antibiotics for UTIs? While doxycycline can be effective in certain cases, it’s often not the first choice for uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Let’s compare it to some frequently used alternatives:

Dosage and Administration of Doxycycline for UTIs

When prescribed for urinary tract infections, the dosage and duration of doxycycline treatment may vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual patient factors. It’s crucial to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.

Typical Dosage for UTIs

• Adults: 100 mg orally twice daily for 7-14 days
• Children over 8 years: 2-4 mg/kg/day divided into two doses

How should doxycycline be taken for optimal effectiveness? To maximize absorption and minimize gastrointestinal side effects, it’s generally recommended to take doxycycline with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, but if stomach upset occurs, taking it with food may help.

Important Administration Tips

1. Take at evenly spaced intervals to maintain consistent blood levels
2. Avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication
3. Do not take with dairy products or antacids containing calcium, magnesium, or aluminum
4. Complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve
5. Stay well-hydrated throughout the treatment period

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While doxycycline is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Being aware of these potential adverse reactions and taking necessary precautions can help ensure a safer treatment experience.

Common Side Effects of Doxycycline

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight)
• Esophageal irritation
• Headache
• Yeast infections

Are there any serious side effects to be aware of when taking doxycycline? While rare, some individuals may experience more severe reactions. These can include:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Intracranial hypertension (increased pressure in the skull)
• Liver toxicity
• Severe skin reactions
• Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea

Precautions and Contraindications

Certain individuals should avoid doxycycline or use it with caution. These include:

• Pregnant women and children under 8 years old (risk of tooth discoloration and enamel hypoplasia)
• Individuals with a history of esophageal problems
• Patients with liver or kidney disease
• Those taking certain medications (e.g., antacids, blood thinners)
• Individuals with a known allergy to tetracycline antibiotics

Patient Experiences and Reviews

Understanding real-world experiences of patients who have used doxycycline for UTIs can provide valuable insights. While individual responses may vary, these reviews can offer a glimpse into the medication’s effectiveness and potential side effects.

Based on user reviews, doxycycline has an average rating of 6.5 out of 10 for the treatment of urinary tract infections. Approximately 54% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 31% reported a negative experience.

Positive Experiences

• Effective in clearing UTI symptoms
• Well-tolerated with minimal side effects
• Convenient dosing schedule
• Helpful for recurrent or resistant UTIs

Negative Experiences

• Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, diarrhea)
• Photosensitivity reactions
• Ineffective against certain UTI strains
• Yeast infections as a side effect

It’s important to remember that individual experiences can vary widely, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation.

Alternative Treatments and Prevention Strategies

While antibiotics like doxycycline play a crucial role in treating UTIs, there are alternative approaches and preventive measures that can complement or, in some cases, potentially replace antibiotic therapy.

Non-Antibiotic Treatments for UTIs

• Cranberry products (juice, supplements)
• D-mannose supplements
• Probiotics
• Herbal remedies (e.g., uva ursi, goldenseal)
• Increased fluid intake

Are there effective ways to prevent UTIs without relying on antibiotics? While no method is foolproof, several strategies can help reduce the risk of developing urinary tract infections:

1. Maintain good hygiene practices
2. Urinate frequently and after sexual intercourse
3. Stay well-hydrated
4. Wear breathable, cotton underwear
5. Avoid using harsh feminine hygiene products
6. Consider vaginal estrogen therapy for postmenopausal women

It’s important to note that while these alternative treatments and prevention strategies can be helpful, they should not replace proper medical care. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you have recurrent or severe UTIs.

Doxycycline User Reviews for Urinary Tract Infection

Print

Save

Brand names:
Vibramycin,
Monodox,
Oracea,
Doxy 100,
Adoxa,
Doryx,
Targadox,
Avidoxy,
Adoxa Pak,
Adoxa CK,
Doryx MPC,
Acticlate,
Alodox,
Adoxa TT,
Mondoxyne NL,
Doxy-D,
Oraxyl,
Doxy-Caps,
Morgidox,
LymePak
Uracil
Okebo
Doxy 200
…show all brand names

Doxycycline
has an average rating of 6.5 out of 10 from a total of 39 reviews
for the
treatment of Urinary Tract Infection.
54% of reviewers reported a positive experience, while 31% reported a negative experience.

Filter by condition
All conditionsAcne (765)ActinomycosisAmebiasisAnthrax (1)Anthrax ProphylaxisBacterial Infection (207)Bartonellosis (2)Bronchiectasis (1)Bronchitis (49)Brucellosis (1)Bullous Pemphigoid (1)Cervicitis (1)ChancroidChlamydia Infection (97)CholeraCutaneous Bacillus anthracisEhrlichiosis (3)EnterocolitisEpididymitis, Sexually TransmittedGastroenteritis (2)Gonococcal Infection, Uncomplicated (2)Granuloma InguinaleInclusion ConjunctivitisLichen PlanopilarisLyme Disease (71)Lyme Disease, Arthritis (2)Lyme Disease, CarditisLyme Disease, Erythema Chronicum MigransLyme Disease, Neurologic (8)Lymphogranuloma VenereumMalaria (5)Malaria Prevention (7)MelioidosisMycoplasma Pneumonia (1)Nongonococcal UrethritisOcular Rosacea (5)OrnithosisPelvic Inflammatory Disease (8)Pemphigoid (1)PemphigusPeriodontitisPlaguePleural Effusion (1)Pneumonia (61)ProctitisProstatitis (17)PsittacosisQ Fever (1)Rabbit FeverRheumatoid Arthritis (5)Rickettsial Infection (2)Rosacea (117)Skin or Soft Tissue Infection (51)STD ProphylaxisSyphilis, Early (2)Syphilis, LatentTertiary SyphilisTrachomaUpper Respiratory Tract Infection (65)Urinary Tract Infection (41)

Doxycycline rating summary

6. 5/10 average rating

39 ratings from 41 user reviews.

Compare all 286 medications used in the treatment of Urinary Tract Infection.

Reviews for Doxycycline

Search keyword

Frequently asked questions

• What are the most common skin conditions? (with photos)
• What is the best antibiotic to treat a sinus infection?
• What are the best antibiotics for pneumonia?
• How long after stopping doxycycline can I drink alcohol?

Are you taking this medicine?

• Add your review
• Learn more about Doxycycline

More FAQ

• What is doxycycline hyclate used for?
• How long does doxycycline stay in your body?
• Is doxycycline safe for dogs?
• Can I take doxycycline hyclate for strep throat?

Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or to remove inappropriate language and content. Reviews that appear to be created by parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any particular medication. While these reviews may be helpful, they are not a substitute for the expertise, knowledge, and judgement of healthcare professionals.

Learn more about Urinary Tract Infection

• Antibiotic Resistance: The Top 10 List
• Antibiotic Shortages: A Serious Safety Concern
• Antibiotics and Birth Control Pill Interactions: Fact or Fallacy?
• Antibiotics For UTI Treatment – What Are My Options?
• Antibiotics Guide
• Anticholinergic Drugs to Avoid in the Elderly
• Common Side Effects from Antibiotics, and Allergies and Reactions
• Why Don’t Antibiotics Kill Viruses?

Care guides

• Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection
• Gonorrhea
• Interstitial Cystitis
• Kidney Infection
• Nonspecific Urethritis in Men
• Ovarian Abscess
• Prostatitis

Medicine.

com guides (external)

• Urinary Tract Infection Guide

More about doxycycline

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Pricing & coupons
• Reviews (1,611)
• Drug images
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• Patient tips
• During pregnancy
• Support group
• Drug class: miscellaneous antimalarials
• Breastfeeding
• En español

Patient resources

• Drug Information
• Doxycycline (Oral) (Advanced Reading)
• Doxycycline Delayed-Release Tablets
• Doxycycline Tablets and Capsules
• Doxycycline Capsules (Rosacea)

Other brands

Vibramycin, Monodox, Oracea, Doxy 100, … +13 more

Professional resources

• Prescribing Information

Related treatment guides

• Acne
• Amebiasis
• Actinomycosis
• Anthrax

Doxycycline (Vibramycin) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings

Brand Names:Acticlate, Adoxa, Alodox, Avidoxy, Doryx, Doryx MPC

By Julie Lynn MarksMedically Reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD

Reviewed: November 17, 2020

Doxycycline is a medicine used to treat or prevent a variety of infections caused by bacteria, including:

• Pneumonia or other respiratory tract infections
• Infections of the skin or eye
• Infections of the lymphatic, intestinal, genital, or urinary systems
• Infections spread by ticks, lice, mites, and infected animals
• Infections spread by contaminated food and water
• Anthrax
• Plague or tularemia
• Malaria

This medicine is also used to treat acne and rosacea (a skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and bumps on the face).

Doxycycline is in a class of medicines called tetracycline antibiotics. It works by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved doxycycline in 1967.

uses

What is Doxycycline (Vibramycin) used for?

• Acne
• Acne Rosacea
• Actinomycosis
• Amebiasis
• Brucellosis
• Chancroid
• Epididymitis — Sexually Transmitted
• Gonococcal Infection — Uncomplicated
• Granuloma Inguinale
• Inclusion Conjunctivitis
• Joint Infection
• Lyme Disease — Arthritis
• Lyme Disease — Carditis
• Lyme Disease — Erythema Chronicum Migrans
• Lyme Disease — Neurologic
• Lymphogranuloma Venereum
• Malaria
• Malaria Prophylaxis
• Mycoplasma Pneumonia
• Nongonococcal Urethritis
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
• Plague
• Pleural Effusion
• Pneumonia
• Rickettsial Infection
• Sinusitis
• Skin or Soft Tissue Infection
• Syphilis — Early
• Syphilis — Latent
• Trachoma
• Tularemia
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
• Proctitis
• Bacterial Infection
• Pulmonary Impairment
• Urinary Tract Infection
• Bronchitis
• Chlamydia Infection
• Lyme Disease
• Cervicitis
• Tuberculosis – Urinary Tract
• Infection – Bacterial/Fungal/Protozoal/Viral
• Pleural Effusion – Bacterial
• Tuberculous Pleurisy
• Periodontitis
• Inhalation Bacillus anthracis
• Cutaneous Bacillus anthracis
• Plague Prophylaxis
• Melioidosis
• STD Prophylaxis
• Anthrax Prophylaxis
• Cholera
• Psittacosis
• Ornithosis
• Bartonellosis
• Wound Infection
• Q Fever

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Doxycycline (Vibramycin)?

You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to doxycycline or other tetracycline antibiotics such as demeclocycline, minocycline, tetracycline, or tigecycline.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• asthma or sulfite allergy;
• increased pressure inside your skull; or
• if you also take isotretinoin, seizure medicine, or a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin).

If you are using doxycycline to treat gonorrhea, your doctor may test you to make sure you do not also have syphilis, another sexually transmitted disease.

Taking this medicine during pregnancy may affect tooth and bone development in the unborn baby. Taking doxycycline during the last half of pregnancy can cause permanent tooth discoloration later in the baby’s life. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant.

Doxycycline can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormonal birth control (condom, diaphragm with spermicide) to prevent pregnancy.

Doxycycline can pass into breast milk and may affect bone and tooth development in a nursing infant. Do not breastfeed while you are taking doxycycline.

Doxycycline can cause permanent yellowing or graying of the teeth in children younger than 8 years old. Children should use doxycycline only in cases of severe or life-threatening conditions such as anthrax or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The benefit of treating a serious condition may outweigh any risks to the child’s tooth development.

User Reviews & Rating

Overall rating for Doxycycline (Vibramycin)

1.9

out of  5

Side Effects

Easy to Use

Effectiveness

Read Doxycycline (Vibramycin) Reviews

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Doxycycline (Vibramycin)?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning in your eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling).

Seek medical treatment if you have a serious drug reaction that can affect many parts of your body. Symptoms may include: skin rash, fever, swollen glands, flu-like symptoms, muscle aches, severe weakness, unusual bruising, or yellowing of your skin or eyes. This reaction may occur several weeks after you began using doxycycline.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe stomach pain, diarrhea that is watery or bloody;
• throat irritation, trouble swallowing;
• chest pain, irregular heart rhythm, feeling short of breath;
• little or no urination;
• low white blood cell counts–fever, chills, swollen glands, body aches, weakness, pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding;
• increased pressure inside the skull–severe headaches, ringing in your ears, dizziness, nausea, vision problems, pain behind your eyes; or
• signs of liver or pancreas problems–loss of appetite, upper stomach pain (that may spread to your back), tiredness, nausea or vomiting, fast heart rate, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common side effects may include:

• nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, loss of appetite;
• mild diarrhea;
• skin rash or itching;
• darkened skin color; or
• vaginal itching or discharge.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Doxycycline (Vibramycin) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

D

Positive evidence of risk

Based on FDA pregnancy categories

Taking this medicine during pregnancy may affect tooth and bone development in the unborn baby. Taking doxycycline during the last half of pregnancy can cause permanent tooth discoloration later in the baby’s life. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant.

Doxycycline can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormonal birth control (condom, diaphragm with spermicide) to prevent pregnancy.

Doxycycline can pass into breast milk and may affect bone and tooth development in a nursing infant. Do not breastfeed while you are taking doxycycline.

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Doxycycline (Vibramycin)?

Do not take iron supplements, multivitamins, calcium supplements, antacids, or laxatives within 2 hours before or after taking doxycycline.

Avoid taking any other antibiotics with doxycycline unless your doctor has told you to.

Doxycycline could make you sunburn more easily. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.

Antibiotic medicines can cause diarrhea, which may be a sign of a new infection. If you have diarrhea that is watery or bloody, call your doctor. Do not use anti-diarrhea medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Doxycycline (Vibramycin)?

Use Doxycycline (Vibramycin) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Take doxycycline with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking doxycycline.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Most brands of doxycyline may be taken with food or milk if the medicine upsets your stomach.

Different brands of doxycycline may have different instructions about taking them with or without food.

Take Oracea on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

You may need to split a doxycycline tablet to get the correct dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Swallow a delayed-release capsule or tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, break, or open it.

Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

If you take doxycycline to prevent malaria: Start taking the medicine 1 or 2 days before entering an area where malaria is common. Continue taking the medicine every day during your stay and for at least 4 weeks after you leave the area.

Doxycycline is usually given by injection only if you are unable to take the medicine by mouth. A healthcare provider will give you this injection as an infusion into a vein.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Doxycycline will not treat a viral infection such as the flu or a common cold.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label has passed. Using expired doxycycline can cause damage to your kidneys.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Doxycycline (Vibramycin)?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Overdose Signs

What happens if I overdose on Doxycycline (Vibramycin)?

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Doxycycline (Vibramycin),  call your doctor or the Poison Control center

(800) 222-1222

If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Doxycycline (Vibramycin), call 911

911

What to Expect

For most infections, you should start to feel better within a few days of using doxycycline.

Tell your physician if you don’t feel better after three days or if you feel worse at any time.

It’s important that you keep taking this medicine for as long as your doctor tells you to. Don’t stop using doxycycline, even if your symptoms improve.

Secondary Uses

Doxycycline is used to treat many different types of infections. Your doctor may recommend it for conditions that aren’t listed in this medical guide.

Images

VIBRA, PFIZER 095

Color: blue

Shape: capsule

Imprint: VIBRA, PFIZER 095

WW 112

Color: orange

Shape: round

Imprint: WW 112

Westward, 3141

Color: blue/white

Shape: capsule

Imprint: Westward, 3141

Find Another Drug

Search prescription drugs, over-the counter medications, and supplements

Medical Disclaimer

Drugs A-Z provides drug information from Everyday Health and our partners, as well as ratings from our members, all in one place. Cerner Multum™ provides the data within some of the Overview, Uses, Warnings, Side Effects, Pregnancy, Interactions, Dosage, Overdose, and Images sections. The information within all other sections is proprietary to Everyday Health. 

Doctors named the main mistakes in the treatment of influenza and SARS – RBC

Photo: Evgeny Kurskov / TASS

The use of antibiotics for influenza and SARS without the need is the most serious mistake in the treatment of these diseases, told RBC therapist, clinical pharmacologist Andrey Kondrakhin. According to him, these are viral diseases, and it is impossible to kill the virus with antibiotics – these drugs are prescribed for bacterial infections.

“When we start taking antibiotics on our own, we hit our own microflora in the gut. This microflora gives us immunity. And after that, we can get sick again with the so-called superinfection, when any bacterium is very difficult for us. Any viral disease in this case can be complicated by a bacterial infection – pneumonia, etc., ”he explained.

According to the doctor, antibiotics should be taken only as directed by a doctor and only if a bacterial infection is associated with a viral infection.

adv.rbc.ru

You can also harm the body if you try to bring down a low temperature. The doctor reminded that antipyretics can be taken only when the temperature rises above 38 degrees, and before that it is better to “help the body with plenty of fluids.”

adv.rbc.ru

“The second mistake is the use of the so-called cold kits earlier than necessary: ​​Tamiflu, Coldrex, Theraflu. They contain very strong components, including antipyretics. An increase in temperature is a normal reaction of the body to any viral infection. Immunity starts when the temperature rises to 37.5 degrees. Cells of the immune system at this temperature begin to activate. As soon as we bring down this temperature, the immune system thinks that everything is fine, and begins to weaken. Less interferons turn on, less antibodies are produced, and a person gets a chronic cold, ”Kondrakhin noted.

The doctor warned that expectorants should also be taken with caution, especially for small children.

“Several cases of death from acetylcysteine ​​drugs have been described. This is due to the incorrect use of the drug. Parents gave it to their children in the evening, which is strictly forbidden: expectorants are taken only in the morning and afternoon. The fact is that young children do not have a cough reflex, it is formed only by the age of four or five, and expectorants increase the secretion of mucus. The sputum stagnates, and children can suffocate, ”the interlocutor of RBC said.

Therapist, Professor of the Department of Hospital Therapy, Russian National Research Medical University. N. I. Pirogov Alexander Karabinenko recalled that vasoconstrictor drops and sprays from the common cold should not be used for more than three days.

“Xylometazoline drops contain quite strong drugs that constrict blood vessels not only in the nose, but also in the brain, heart, and other organs, that is, they impoverish the blood supply to vital organs. These drops cannot be used uncontrollably, especially for elderly people suffering from hypertension, heart disease, and so on. It is better that the treatment is prescribed by an otolaryngologist, ”he said.

According to him, the most effective means of preventing influenza and SARS is vaccination, which should be carried out from mid-August to mid-November. During the cold season, medical masks must be worn in public places. “And if you are already sick, you should not try to endure a cold on your legs, but it is better to take a sick leave for at least a few days. The body is weakened at this time, and even slight physical exertion and hypothermia can lead to complications of the disease, ”added Karabinenko.

According to the forecast of the Minister of Health Veronika Skvortsova, the increase in the incidence of influenza and SARS will begin in December, the peak will be in January and February.

Do antibiotics damage immunity? What happens if you don’t complete the course? Answering Meduza Readers’ Questions About Antibiotics – Meduza

Fahroni / Shutterstock.com

In February, we asked readers to ask us questions about antibiotics and everything related to them. Medical editor Daria Sargsyan read all three thousand questions, chose the most popular and interesting ones, and answered them.

Are antibiotics and antivirals different?

Short. Yes.

Antibiotics are drugs that fight bacteria, that is, microorganisms that sometimes cause various infections, such as strep throat, cystitis, syphilis, and many others. Antibiotics cannot affect viruses in any way – infectious agents about which there is still no consensus whether they can be called alive. Viruses cause acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI), HIV infection, measles and others. There are antiviral drugs to fight some viruses. Those that have proven their effectiveness are very few. These are, for example, drugs to combat hepatitis C, herpes simplex virus and HIV.

However, it may be that a bacterial infection develops against the background of a viral infection. Then antibiotics may really be needed, but they are rarely prescribed as a preventive measure. For example, with ARVI, this approach has not proven its effectiveness. However, doctors continue to prescribe antibiotics without indication, even for viral infections, and there are several reasons for this. One of the main ones is that patients or their relatives are waiting for some kind of treatment to be prescribed, although in reality no drugs are required. This is done not only in Russia, but also in other countries. For example, in the US and UK.

Do antibiotics damage immunity?

Short. From ordinary ones – no.

But there are special drugs that inhibit the development of cells. “There are antibiotics that are even first cytostatics, and only then the so-called antitumor antibiotics,” writes an allergist-immunologist at the Rassvet clinic (Moscow) and founder of the Umka+ Evidence-Based Medicine Center (Rostov-on-Don) in response to a question from Meduza. Don) Umar Khasanov. – One of the most famous is dactinomycin. <...> There is no data on the immunosuppressive effect of “standard” antibiotics, and this is nothing more than a myth. Moreover, there are a number of primary immunodeficiencies that require daily antibiotics for many years.”

What happens if I don’t complete the course?

Short. Unknown.

This is a difficult question. Until recently, major medical organizations were unanimous in their view that an incomplete course of antibiotics leads to the emergence and spread of drug-resistant bacteria. Because if the course is interrupted ahead of time, only the most resistant bacteria will remain in the body. But in recent years, they began to actively discuss that, perhaps, the prescribed courses are too long. With the advent of new data, the recommendations change, but the question “Is it possible not to finish the course of antibiotics?” still debatable. While there is no consensus, it is better to follow the appointment of a competent doctor.

But the problem with the growing resistance of bacteria to antibiotics remains. There are already microorganisms that are resistant to all drugs. And this is associated with the overuse of antibiotics both in humans and in agriculture. One way to prevent these drugs is to get vaccinated.

Which antibiotics are more effective – tablets or injections?

Short. No difference.

If a person can swallow and does not vomit, it is better to do without intravenous or intramuscular administration. This is true for many other drugs, not just antibiotics. The fact is that often the effect of the medicine is the same, and taking it by mouth is not associated with various unpleasant consequences such as abscesses, hematomas and nerve damage. Not to mention that intramuscular injections and droppers are usually painful.

Antibiotics “plant” the liver?

Short. Sometimes.

Some antibiotics can actually cause liver damage, either acute or chronic. According to various estimates, drugs (all together, not just antibiotics) lead to this result in 10-15 cases per 10-100 thousand people taking prescription drugs. But usually everything ends well in such cases, especially if you pay attention to symptoms in time, which may be non-specific (nausea, rash, headache) or more characteristic (dark urine, jaundice). However, they often do not exist, so the doctor may prescribe some tests at regular intervals in order to detect changes in time. More often than other antibiotics, the combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid leads to this effect, which is used, in particular, for otitis media, pneumonia and rhinosinusitis.

Do I need to take probiotics or eat yogurt to avoid diarrhea from antibiotics?

Short. Their effectiveness has not been proven.

Antibiotics not only kill the bacteria that cause the infection, but also those that live in the body and help it function. This can lead to rather unpleasant and even dangerous consequences. It happens that everything ends with several cases of diarrhea during the course of antibiotics. But sometimes a person develops an infection caused by bacteria Clostridioides difficile, that in extreme cases it is recommended to treat even with fecal transplantation from a healthy donor. There are also long-term consequences of taking antibiotics (in particular, the risk of developing diseases of the immune system increases). Therefore, the desire of doctors and patients to somehow restore normal microflora is understandable. But there are no reliable ways to do this.

The prime candidate is probiotics, that is, microorganisms that are expected to provide health benefits. They can be sold as dietary supplements or as part of some products (for example, yogurt). There is not yet enough evidence for doctors to recommend them as a prevention of one of the most serious consequences of taking antibiotics – infection caused by bacterium Clostridioides difficile. Although there is some evidence that this approach may work in certain groups of patients. But the research results that are available for some strains cannot be applied to others. In addition, probiotics can harm seriously ill people. The effectiveness of probiotics against diarrhea caused by antibiotics has not been proven.

Can bacteriophages replace antibiotics?

Short. Not yet known.

Bacteriophages are viruses that fight bacteria. They were actively used in the Soviet Union; in Europe and America, they have become popular relatively recently, but mainly among startup founders. Doctors use bacteriophages as a last resort when bacteria are resistant to known antibiotics. And the result is not always successful, even though bacteriophages are selected for each patient separately. Some preliminary studies show the effectiveness of bacteriophages with varying success, but they are not yet recommended by medical organizations. In the West, this therapy is considered experimental.

Why can’t you choose an antibiotic yourself?

Short. There are many factors to consider.

The selection of an antibiotic depends not only on the diagnosis (which still needs to be correctly made), but also what the person was treated with before, whether he has contraindications, where he lives and, in some cases, what are the laboratory results of the sensitivity of bacteria to antibiotics. Sometimes, even with a confirmed bacterial infection, the doctor may not prescribe anything: there will be potentially more benefit from observation than from drugs with possible adverse reactions. Such points are spelled out in the guidelines of national and international medical communities. Because of all these factors, antibiotics are sometimes recommended to be taken in a different way from the instructions on the package (although such a decision is quite controversial from a legal point of view).

In addition, there are antibiotics on sale in Russia that have not demonstrated their effectiveness and safety in accordance with the standards of evidence-based medicine, at least in the area in which, according to the instructions, they are recommended for use. For example, gramicidin C (part of Grammidin and Sofradex). Also, until 2016, it was possible to buy Bioparox (fusafungin), then its sale was banned due to adverse reactions. Some antibiotics are recommended as sprays for a runny nose, although there is nothing like this in modern guidelines for the treatment of this condition.

How to properly dispose of expired antibiotics?

Short. They cannot simply be thrown away.

In Russia, there is no way for patients to properly dispose of drugs without harming the environment. For example, in the USA they are centrally accepted at special points. Recycle believes that “at the moment, the only way to properly dispose of medicines from a home first aid kit is to “attach” them to friends from a private clinic who can process your delay along with their waste.” In other cases, you just need to make sure that the drugs are not accidentally available to animals or children. To do this, tablets or capsules must be removed from the blister, mixed with something that will not interest anyone (for example, earth), and closed in a bag or jar.