Doxycycline over the counter (OTC): Can you get it?

Table of Content:
Can you get doxycycline OTC? | Where to get it OTC? | How to get a prescription online? | What is doxycycline? | Side effects | Doxycycline alternatives

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You probably have heard about doxycycline, as it is a broad spectrum antibiotic with many uses, including acne. But, can you get doxycycline over the counter (OTC) or does it require a prescription from a healthcare provider?

In this article, we will explore the availability of doxycycline, including whether or not it can be purchased without a prescription, and where and how you can get it.

Can you get doxycycline over the counter (OTC)?

Unfortunately, not, you cannot buy doxycycline over the counter. It can only be purchased with a doctor’s prescription. 

Where to buy doxycycline over the counter?

Doxycycline hyclate and monohydrate are prescription antibiotics and it is not advisable to try to find a place where to buy it over the counter as it should only be used under medical supervision. Here is why:

• Doxycycline can cause an allergic reaction, people who are allergic to tetracycline antibiotics (demeclocycline, minocycline, tetracycline, or tigecycline) should not take doxycycline. 

• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid doxycycline as it may cause permanent tooth discoloration. 

• Children under 12 years of age should avoid taking doxycycline as it may cause permanent yellowing or graying of the teeth. 

• Doxycycline can make birth control pills less effective, take extra precautions to prevent pregnancy¹. 

How to get a doxycycline prescription online?

Getting a doxycycline prescription online for acne is very easy via Miiskin. You just need to have a quick virtual consultation which consists of taking a few photos of your skin and answering a few simple questions about your acne. For this photo consultation, you will pay a flat fee of $59 and if doxycycline is adequate and safe for you, you will get your prescription.

How to get doxycycline online?

After getting a prescription from your online dermatologist, you can get it online or buy it at the local pharmacy.

Want to know more about doxycycline? 

What is doxycycline?

Doxycycline is available in two formulations: doxycycline hyclate and doxycycline monohydrate. It is a common tetracycline antibiotic for the management of various bacterial infections². Additionally, it serves as a widespread treatment option for acne³ and rosacea⁴. 

Despite acne not being categorized as an infection, specific antibiotics like doxycycline work to diminish the presence of P. acnes bacteria on the skin, leading to a reduction in inflammation and alleviating painful breakouts⁵.

Side effects of doxycycline

Common side effects of doxycycline

• Diarrhea
• Sensitivity to sun 
• Nausea or vomiting
• Skin rash/itching
• Headaches
• Tooth discoloration

Severe adverse effects of doxycycline

• Bloody diarrhea
• Leukopenia (decreased in the number of leukocytes)
• Migraines
• Anemia
• Throat pain or difficulty swallowing
• Chest pain
• Worsens symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular or rapid heart rate
• Burning sensation during urination
• Intracranial hypertension (increased pressure within the cranial cavity)
• Esophageal ulcerations if taken without water⁶

What are some doxycycline alternatives for acne?

There are several alternatives to doxycycline for the treatment of acne. The choice of treatment will depend on the severity of the acne, individual factors, and a healthcare provider’s recommendation. Here are some common alternatives:

• Topical Antibiotics: Topical antibiotics like clindamycin are often used to treat mild to moderate acne. They work by reducing the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.

• Retinoids: Prescription retinoids: such as tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene are effective at treating acne by unclogging pores and promoting skin cell turnover. They are available in various strengths and can be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

• Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide is available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms and is used to kill the bacteria that contribute to acne. It also helps to unclog pores.

• Oral antibiotics: Besides doxycycline, other oral antibiotics like minocycline and sarecycline (Seysara) may be prescribed for more severe or persistent cases of acne. These antibiotics work by reducing inflammation and controlling bacterial growth.

• Spironolactone: Spironolactone is an oral medication that can be effective for adult women with hormonal acne. It works by reducing androgens (male hormones) that can contribute to acne.

Learn more about the 12 best acne treatments by expert dermatologist Dr. Alpana Mohta. 

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