Leptospirosis Prevention and Treatment

Prophylaxis and Treatment Guidelines

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends prophylaxis should begin 1-2 days before exposure, unlike other antimalarials that require 1-2 weeks 1

Administration and Safety Precautions

• Patients should take doxycycline with a full glass of water (at least 100 mL) and remain upright for at least 1 hour after administration to prevent esophagitis, as suggested by medical guidelines 3
• Doxycycline dosing should be separated by at least 2 hours from dairy products, antacids, and supplements containing calcium, iron, magnesium, or sodium bicarbonate, according to the MMWR Recommendations and Reports 2
• The MMWR Recommendations and Reports also advises using protective clothing and footwear when exposure is unavoidable, and controlling rodent populations in high-risk environments 2