Oesophageal ulceration in adult patients treated with doxycycline for acne vulgaris. Issue 12 (December 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Guo, Yan; Li, Hua-Ming; Li, Chun-Xia; Zhu, Wei-Qin; Wang, Yu-Fang; He, Ya-Hong
• Is Part Of: Journal of international medical research. Volume 47:Issue 12(2019)
• Page Start: 6404
• Page End: 6409
• Publication Date: 2019-12
• Subjects: Oesophageal ulceration -- doxycycline -- acne vulgaris -- oesophageal injury -- endoscopy -- oesophageal diseases; Medicine -- Periodicals; Pharmacology -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1177/0300060519881272
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-0605

Abstract

Objective: To report drug-induced oesophageal ulceration in adult patients treated with doxycycline for acne vulgaris. Methods: This retrospective case series included data from adult patients treated with oral doxycycline therapy for acne vulgaris, who had presented with oesophageal ulceration at the Third People's Hospital of Hangzhou between June 2016 and December 2017, and whose diagnosis was confirmed by gastroscopy. Clinicodemographic data were analysed, including symptom onset, endoscopy results, that were assessed for classic features of oesophageal ulceration. Patients were questioned regarding medication intake. Results: A total of 12 patients were included (mean age, 23.50 ± 3.20 years), eight (66.67%) of whom were female. Based on history of medication and endoscopic findings, these patients were diagnosed with doxycycline-induced oesophageal ulceration. Most patients were found to have taken the medication at bedtime, just before lying down, and/or with insufficient water. Conclusion: Doxycycline may cause oesophageal irritation when not taken with sufficient water, or taken just before lying down to sleep. Prescribing physicians should be aware of these issues, and instruct patients as to the correct method for intake of doxycycline.