Time to consider doxycycline in the standard treatment of lymphatic filariasis? Emerging evidence on use of doxycycline as an adjunct to hygiene protocols.

Abstract

With lymphatic filariasis being a rampant condition in tropical countries, multiple treatment modalities are being explored for their efficacy and practicability of use in low resource settings. Doxycycline, a commonly available drug across the world, has been proposed to improve patient status in those suffering with lymphatic filariasis. In conjunct with hygiene protocols, emerging trials have highlighted the success of doxycycline as an add-on drug. In this letter, we highlight the major findings in recent trials, and the scope of integrating doxycycline into national elimination strategies against filariasis.