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Doxycycline counselling — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateInfectionsDoxycycline counsellingGPhC CRA

A 27-year-old man is prescribed doxycycline 100mg daily for chlamydia treatment. He asks how to take it because he often takes tablets before bed with very little water. He has no swallowing difficulty. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Take it with plenty of water while upright and avoid lying down soon after

Doxycycline can cause oesophageal irritation, so it should be taken with plenty of water while upright and not immediately before lying down. Antacids and dairy products can reduce absorption. Photosensitivity counselling is also relevant, and sunbed use would increase harm. The advice supports both efficacy and safety.

Reference: BNF Doxycycline; NICE CKS Chlamydia