LymeNet Flash: new tick bite - if lyme, what meds?

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»	LymeNet Flash » Questions and Discussion » Medical Questions » new tick bite - if lyme, what meds?

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Topic: new tick bite - if lyme, what meds?

musharina
Member
Member # 2149

posted

Hello. Just a quick question for a friend who has a rash and is going to the doc to find out if it is even Lyme (not typical bullseye). If so, what meds should he be given -- how long...?

Thanks so much! - Michele

Posts: 75 | From Long Island, NY | Registered: Feb 2002 | IP: Logged |

Sammi
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 110

posted

Hi Michele. Make sure your friend gets photos of the rash. Have him put something near the rash, like a coin or ruler, before photographing to give it size definition. It is important documentation.

From what I understand, an infection caught within two weeks of the bite should be treated with a minimum of six weeks of the proper dose antibiotic (which is usually stronger than for other infections). The antibiotics kill the bacteria when they are reproducing, which is estimated at four weeks. Six weeks of treatment will cover one growth cycle. If symptoms are still present, further treatment is warranted. A longer infection needs longer treatment.

Doxycycline is often first prescribed. I believe the recommended dose for Lyme is 300-600 mg daily but many doctors will only prescribe 200 mg daily.

I hope his appointment goes well.

Posts: 4682 | Registered: Oct 2000 | IP: Logged |

musharina
Member
Member # 2149

posted

Thank you very much. I appreciate your time.

Posts: 75 | From Long Island, NY | Registered: Feb 2002 | IP: Logged |

Sammi
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 110

posted

I hope your friend gets properly treated.

Posts: 4682 | Registered: Oct 2000 | IP: Logged |

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