The time it takes to feel better while taking doxycycline can vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Some people may notice improvement within a few days, while others may require a longer course of treatment.

The time it takes to treat chlamydia, for example, is up to 2 weeks, but you may only be on doxycycline for 7 days. Respiratory infections often improve within 3-5 days of starting treatment.

Vibramycin was a brand name for generic doxycycline, but many formulations have since been discontinued in the U.S. Doxycycline is still available in several forms, including doxycycline hyclate and doxycycline monohydrate, as well as brand names like Acticlate, Doryx, and Targadox.

All are tetracycline antibiotics used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Generic medications are commonly available, which can help lower the price of doxycycline or the copay at your pharmacy.

Doxycycline may not be suitable for everyone. Before starting treatment, tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements.

Certain medications may require extra caution, such as anticoagulants, penicillin or other antibiotics, retinoids, acitretin, methotrexate, digoxin, proton pump inhibitors, and hormonal birth control.

Medical conditions that should be discussed with your provider include liver or kidney disease, lupus, diabetes, or asthma. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your provider before using doxycycline to weigh potential risks and benefits.

While taking doxycycline, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and finish the full course, even if you feel better. Avoid lying down right after your dose, taking it with dairy or certain supplements, and excessive sun, as these can affect absorption or increase side effects.

If you use hormonal birth control, consider using an additional contraception method, as doxycycline may reduce its effectiveness. Check with your provider before starting new medications.

All FDA-approved oral antibiotics, including doxycycline, are currently only available via prescription, not over the counter. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed healthcare provider. (Certain topical antibiotics are available OTC.)

If you're looking for a prescription, book a telehealth appointment to talk to a Sesame provider who can write a new prescription or refill an existing one. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

You can refill your doxycycline prescription online through Sesame. Book a quick video visit with a licensed provider who can review your current treatment, confirm it’s safe to continue, and send a prescription refill to your local pharmacy or for delivery when available.

Providers on Sesame can typically assist with refilling 1-2 existing prescriptions during a refill appointment. If you require additional medication, your provider may require a longer or additional visit so that there is time to adequately review and assess your medication needs.