Long Term Use of Doxycycline

[aharriso]

for episcleritis
I have been told to give 1% eye drops of Prenisolone 3x/da and
pills, 100 mg 2x/day doxycycline and Nicotinamide, 500 mg  2x/day

this is for a dog but I question the long term use of doxycycline because of compromise of bacteria in digestive tract causing diarhea.  Guidance please?  Thanks!

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Doxycycline can be used for extended periods for 6 - 12 months in select situations under the supervision of a physician, but the doses are usually in the subtherapeutic range for infection at something like 25 or 50 mg a day.  The dose you mentioned is a full antibiotic dose and is usually only used for a week or two.

MJK MD

[aharriso]

Thank you very much!  That makes sense to me!
Regards!
Lindy Harrison