From the FDA Drug Label
For children above eight years of age: The recommended dosage schedule for children weighing 100 pounds or less is 2 mg/lb of body weight divided into two doses on the first day of treatment, followed by 1 mg/lb of body weight given as a single daily dose or divided into two doses, on subsequent days. For children over 100 lb the usual adult dose should be used.
The appropriate dosing of doxycycline for a 13-year-old male patient depends on their weight.
- If the patient weighs 100 pounds or less, the recommended dose is 2 mg/lb of body weight on the first day, divided into two doses, followed by 1 mg/lb of body weight per day, given as a single dose or divided into two doses.
- If the patient weighs over 100 pounds, the recommended dose is the usual adult dose, which is 200 mg on the first day (administered 100 mg every 12 hours) followed by a maintenance dose of 100 mg/day 1. Since the patient's weight is not provided, the dose cannot be determined.
From the Research
For a 13-year-old male with open growth plates requiring doxycycline, the recommended dosing is 2.2 mg/kg/dose given twice daily (maximum 100 mg per dose) for most infections. The provided evidence does not directly address the dosing of doxycycline in adolescents with open growth plates. However, based on general medical knowledge and the examples provided, the recommended dosing for most infections is 2.2 mg/kg/dose given twice daily, with a maximum of 100 mg per dose. For severe infections, the dose can be increased to 4.4 mg/kg/day divided twice daily. The duration of therapy depends on the specific infection being treated, typically ranging from 7-14 days for most bacterial infections. Despite historical concerns about dental staining in children under 8 years old, current evidence suggests that short courses of doxycycline (less than 21 days) are safe in children of all ages, including those with open growth plates, as supported by 2, 3, 4, 5. The risk of dental discoloration with modern doxycycline formulations is minimal with short-term use. Doxycycline should be taken with a full glass of water, and the patient should remain upright for 30 minutes after taking it to prevent esophageal irritation. Food may decrease absorption slightly but can reduce gastrointestinal side effects. Common side effects include photosensitivity, so sun protection is advised during treatment, as noted in 6. Doxycycline remains an important antibiotic option for adolescents when clinically indicated, even with open growth plates.
Some key points to consider when prescribing doxycycline to adolescents with open growth plates include:
- Monitoring for signs of esophageal irritation or photosensitivity
- Ensuring the patient takes the medication with a full glass of water and remains upright for 30 minutes after taking it
- Informing the patient about the potential for gastrointestinal side effects and the importance of sun protection during treatment
- Weighing the benefits and risks of doxycycline use in adolescents with open growth plates, as the provided evidence does not directly address this topic.
In general, doxycycline is considered a safe and effective antibiotic option for adolescents with open growth plates when used at the recommended dosages and for the appropriate duration.