What is the duration of doxycycline treatment for Lyme disease?

Doxycycline is an antibiotic commonly used to treat Lyme disease, particularly in its early stages. The recommended duration for doxycycline treatment for Lyme disease is typically between 10 to 14 days. This timeframe allows for sufficient antibiotic exposure to effectively eliminate the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria responsible for the infection, thereby minimizing the risk of complications such as neurological or cardiac issues that can arise if the infection is not adequately treated.

Treatment lasting less than 10 days might not be effective in fully resolving the infection, while extended treatment beyond 14 days could be unnecessary and may increase the risk of antibiotic-related side effects without additional therapeutic benefit. Thus, 10 to 14 days strikes a balance between efficacy and safety in managing early Lyme disease.