Scrub typhus showdown: which antibiotic works best when resistance is rising?

NCT ID NCT03083197

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests three antibiotic regimens for scrub typhus, a bacterial infection spread by mites. Researchers compare 7 days of doxycycline, 3 days of doxycycline, and 3 days of azithromycin in 177 hospitalized patients aged 15 and older. The goal is to see which treatment clears fever fastest and prevents relapse, especially in areas where drug resistance is a concern.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
doxycycline and azithromycin
What this could lead to
If successful, this could identify the most effective antibiotic regimen for scrub typhus, potentially reducing treatment failures and relapse in regions with drug resistance.
What could go wrong
This is a relatively small Phase 4 trial (177 participants) in specific regions, so results may not apply everywhere. Antibiotic resistance patterns vary, and the open-label design could introduce bias.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Chiangrai Prachanukroh Hospital

    Chiang Rai, Thailand

  • Mae Chan District Hospital

    Chiang Rai, Thailand

  • Mae Fah Luang District Hospital

    Chiang Rai, Thailand

  • Mae Suai District Hospital

    Chiang Rai, Thailand

  • Shoklo-Malaria Research Unit (SMRU)

    Mae Sot, Changwat Tak, Thailand

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