From the FDA Drug Label
Doxycycline is also indicated for the treatment of infections caused by the following gram-negative microorganisms: ... Cholera caused by Vibrio cholerae (formerly Vibrio comma). The recommended treatment for outpatient Vibrio infections, specifically cholera, is doxycycline 1.
- Key points:
- Doxycycline is indicated for the treatment of cholera caused by Vibrio cholerae.
- The treatment should be guided by bacteriologic testing to ensure appropriate susceptibility to the drug.
From the Research
The recommended treatment for outpatient Vibrio infections is doxycycline (100 mg twice daily) or ciprofloxacin (500 mg twice daily) for 3-5 days, with the exact duration depending on infection severity, as supported by the most recent study 2.
Key Considerations
- For mild to moderate infections, oral antibiotics are usually sufficient, while more severe cases may require initial intravenous therapy before transitioning to oral medications.
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole or fluoroquinolones can be alternatives for patients who cannot tolerate first-line options.
- Treatment should begin promptly as Vibrio infections can progress rapidly, especially in immunocompromised patients or those with liver disease.
- Wound infections require thorough cleaning and debridement of necrotic tissue in addition to antibiotics.
Patient Management
- Patients should stay well-hydrated, especially with gastrointestinal symptoms, and monitor for signs of worsening infection such as increasing pain, redness, swelling, or fever, which would necessitate immediate medical attention.
- The choice of antibiotic should be guided by the severity of the infection and the patient's underlying health status, with consideration of the potential for antimicrobial resistance 2.
Evidence Base
- The most recent study 2 highlights the importance of prompt treatment and the effectiveness of doxycycline and ciprofloxacin in treating Vibrio infections.
- Other studies 3, 4, 5, 6 support the use of these antibiotics, but the most recent study 2 provides the strongest evidence for their effectiveness in outpatient treatment.