An open randomised comparison of ofloxacin and doxycycline in lower respiratory tract infections.

The efficacy and tolerance of ofloxacin and doxycycline were compared in patients with lower respiratory tract infections. Doses used were 200 or 400mg twice daily for ofloxacin and 100mg twice daily for doxycycline. Of 230 patients treated, 219 could be assessed for effectiveness. 88 patients were treated for exacerbations of chronic bronchitis and 131 for pneumonia. Clinical cure was achieved in 18 of 52 patients with bronchitis treated with ofloxacin. Improvement occurred in 29 and failure in 5. In the doxycycline-treated bronchitis group 11 of 36 patients were cured, 22 improved and 1 failure occurred. Of 62 patients with pneumonia who were administered ofloxacin, 34 were cured, 26 improved and treatment failed in 2. In the doxycycline-treated group of patients with pneumonia 39 of 69 were cured, 23 improved and 7 failed to respond. Two patients experienced adverse effects during ofloxacin treatment and 7 while receiving doxycycline.