FDA Public Health Advisory
Update on the Use of Doxycycline for
Anthrax Exposure
Secretary of Health and Human Services Tommy G. Thompson announced on October
17 in testimony before the Committee on Governmental Affairs and Subcommittee on
International Security, Proliferation and Federal Services of the United States
Senate, that the Food and Drug Administration is approving new labeling for the
use of several antibiotics to treat anthrax.
The following is being issued to provide healthcare providers with
clarification on dosing regimens about doxycycline. In addition, FDA is developing
more information about the use of this and other antibiotics to treat anthrax
and will provide this information soon.
Doxycycline is approved for the treatment of anthrax in all its forms. The
FDA is providing additional information concerning the dosing regimen for the
treatment of anthrax, including cutaneous and inhalation anthrax
(post-exposure). The currently recommended dosage regimen of doxycycline for
severe disease is 100 mg every 12 hours for adults and 1mg per pound (2.2mg per
kilogram) every 12 hours for children less than 100 pounds. These dosage
regimens are appropriate for use in patients who have been exposed to anthrax (Bacillus
anthracis) regardless of the route of exposure.
FDA and other health authorities strongly discourage individuals from taking
any antibiotic for prevention of anthrax without the specific advice of a
physician and a clear indication that exposure to the organism may have
occurred.
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FDA/Center for Drug Evaluation and Research
Last Updated: October 18, 2001
Originator: OTCOM/DLIS
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