Doxycycline inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit. Doxycycline has bacteriostatic activity against a broad range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Doxycycline is an antibiotic that can be used to treat acne. As part of a group of antibiotics called tetracyclines, it helps treat acne by reducing bacteria on pores and by calming inflammation.