Doxycycline for Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)

Doxycycline is a commonly used a tetracycline antibiotic that has a number of different clinical indications. One such clinical indication is sinusitis and sinus infections. In this article, we shall review the use of doxycycline in sinus infections.

Sinus infections

The sinuses are small spaces that are present within the skull through which air circulates. Lining the sinuses are tiny cells which have small hair-like projections called cilia on top of them. These cells are responsible for the production of mucus that acts as a barrier for foreign bodies entering the respiratory system. However, sometimes infections can affect the cells and the production of mucus increases dramatically resulting in a blocked nose and blocked sinuses. These infections require treatment with antibiotics and doxycycline is one such antibiotic use in the management of sinus infections.

Doxycycline dosage for sinus infections

The dosage of doxycycline depends upon how bad the sinus infection is. Doxycycline is not the first line treatment for sinus infections but is a suitable alternative in the presence of allergies to penicillin. It is also useful in the management of sinus infections that occur secondary to organisms that are resistant the effect of penicillin. Nonetheless, doxycycline is widely utilised at a dose of 100 mg twice a day for a period of 7 to 10 days in the treatment of sinus infections.

Given the doxycycline is not the first line choice of treatment for sinusitis, its prescription is often delayed and is reserved for patients who have not responded to regular antibiotics given for sinusitis.

Advantages of doxycycline for sinus infections

Doxycycline can significantly improve symptoms within a short period of time following commencement of therapy. It is effective against a variety of different organisms that cause sinus infections. It shortens the overall duration of the infection and can help patients get back to normal activity sooner rather than later.

Disadvantages of doxycycline for sinus infections

A major disadvantage with doxycycline use for sinus infection is its side-effect profile. The side-effects however are not very common and at the most to mild. Some patients may experience nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting and loss of appetite. Rarely do patients get headaches and alterations in their vision following doxycycline use but if they do occur, patients are strongly recommended to visit their health care practitioner with a view to stopping the treatment and taking a suitable alternative for the sinus infection.

Doxycycline for sinus infections in pregnant women is a contraindication meaning that it should not be prescribed for pregnant women.

Doxycycline is a useful antibiotic in the treatment of sinus infections.