What is the difference in price between doxycycline (antibiotic) capsules and tablets?

Doxycycline Capsule vs Tablet Price Comparison

Doxycycline capsules are typically less expensive than tablets, with generic doxycycline capsules often costing 30-50% less than their tablet counterparts for the same dosage.

Price Differences and Formulation Considerations

The price difference between doxycycline capsules and tablets stems from several factors:

• Manufacturing process: Tablets require additional processing steps and excipients compared to capsules, increasing production costs
• Bioavailability: Both formulations provide similar bioavailability when taken as directed 1
• Clinical efficacy: No significant difference in clinical outcomes between capsule and tablet formulations for the same dosage 2

Formulation-Specific Considerations

Capsules

• Generally less expensive (preferred for cost-conscious prescribing)
• Should be taken with a full glass of water
• Should not be taken within 2 hours of dairy products, antacids, or supplements containing calcium, iron, magnesium, or sodium bicarbonate 3
• Patient should remain upright for at least 1 hour after taking to prevent esophagitis 3

Tablets

• More expensive than capsules
• May be preferred for specific clinical situations requiring exact dosing
• Same administration precautions apply regarding food interactions and body position

Quality and Potency Considerations

Research has shown important differences in quality control between FDA-approved and compounded formulations of doxycycline:

• FDA-approved doxycycline formulations (both tablets and capsules) consistently meet USP standards for potency on day 1 and after 21 days of storage 4
• Compounded doxycycline formulations show significant variability in drug content, with many falling outside acceptable ranges 4

Clinical Applications and Dosing

For most common indications, the standard dosing is:

• 100 mg twice daily for most infections 3
• 200 mg on day 1, followed by 100 mg daily for respiratory infections 5
• 200 mg as a single dose within 72 hours of exposure for doxycycline PEP for STI prevention 3

Practical Recommendations

When prescribing doxycycline:

1. Choose capsules when cost is a concern for the patient
2. Prioritize FDA-approved formulations over compounded products 4
3. Consider patient-specific factors such as adherence (once vs. twice daily dosing)
4. Provide clear instructions about administration with food and body position to minimize adverse effects

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Assuming tablets and capsules have different clinical efficacy (they don't when properly manufactured)
• Failing to consider cost differences when prescribing, especially for long-term therapy
• Not providing proper administration instructions to prevent GI side effects
• Using compounded formulations when FDA-approved options are available

The price difference between formulations becomes particularly important for patients on long-term doxycycline therapy or those paying out-of-pocket for medications.