The use of Tetracycline antibiotics in dealing with acne is mainly intended for suppressing its symptoms rather than curing this condition. Tetracyclines show a high effectiveness in preventing the symptoms of acne.It works by decreasing the growth of bacteria that cause acne and reducing inflammation. As Tetracycline antibiotics don’t cure but suppress acne, they are used for a long period in low doses. Basically, the dose depends on the severity of acne, so the individuals with severe acne might be prescribes a higher dose of this medications.
Tetracycline antibiotics are used an hour before to 2 hours after taking food. Tetracycline antibiotics used for acne should not be used together with milk or antacids. It’s recommended to drinka lot of water.
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should use tetracyclines with caution as very unfavourable conditions can happen to the baby. Tetracycline antibiotics are also not recommended for children under the 12 years old.
Tetracyclines can provoke certain adverse effects among which is skin sensitivity, so before the exposure to the sun, use sunscreen to avoid serious damage of the skin. The following side effects may also occur during the treatment with Tetracyclines: skin rash, headaches, hemolytic anemia, and in rare cases liver disease due to allergy.
Despite the fact that Tetracyclines bring the positive results in treating bacteria that cause acne, these medications affects helpful bacteria as well. These helpful bacteria are found in the bowel and their main function is synthesizing the B vitamins. The decrease amount of these bacteria leads to such condition as thrush in women.
Also popular antitiobics are: Azithromycin 500mg (generic Zithromax), Ciprofloxacin 500mg (generic Cipro), Cephalexin 500mg (generic Keflex).