Doxycycline is an antibiotic that is commonly used to treat moderate to severe acne, especially when acne is resistant to topical treatments or involves significant inflammation. It belongs to the tetracycline class of antibiotics and works by targeting the bacteria that contribute to acne, specifically Propionibacterium acnes.
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What is Doxycyline?
Doxycycline is an antibiotic that is commonly used to treat moderate to severe acne, especially when acne is resistant to topical treatments or involves significant inflammation. It belongs to the tetracycline class of antibiotics and works by targeting the bacteria that contribute to acne, specifically Propionibacterium acnes (now known as Cutibacterium acnes).
How Doxycycline Works for Acne?
Reduces Bacteria: Doxycycline targets and reduces the bacteria on the skin that cause acne. By decreasing the amount of bacteria, it helps to reduce the inflammatory response that leads to acne lesions, like pustules and papules. Anti-inflammatory: Besides its antibacterial effects, doxycycline also has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce the redness, swelling, and pain associated with acne. Prevents Clogged Pores: Doxycycline can help prevent the development of new acne lesions by reducing bacterial growth and inflammation, both of which contribute to clogged pores.
Benefits of Doxycycline for Acne?
Effective for Moderate to Severe Acne: It is often prescribed for individuals with moderate to severe acne, especially when topical treatments (such as benzoyl peroxide or retinoids) have not been effective. Fast-Acting: Doxycycline typically starts to show results within a few weeks, though it may take 6 to 8 weeks for full improvements. Systemic Treatment: As an oral antibiotic, doxycycline works from the inside out, which can be particularly beneficial for acne that is widespread or particularly inflamed.
Dosage: The typical dosage for acne is 50 mg to 100 mg per day, taken as one or two doses depending on your doctor’s recommendations.
Take with Water: It’s important to take doxycycline with a full glass of water to help prevent irritation of the esophagus and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Doxycycline can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s important to apply sunscreen daily and avoid prolonged sun exposure to prevent sunburn.
Side effects
Doxycycline is likely to make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, sunbeds and sun lamps should be avoided and a suitable SPF should be worn.
Doxycycline can, for some people, cause nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness and shortness of breath.
Is it safe to take Doxycycline during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Doxycycline should be used while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Will either of these medications interact with other medicines?
Doxycycline can interfere with the effectiveness of other medications, so it is important you let us know about any medications you may be taking when you request this treatment.
Active ingredients
Doxycycline Hyclate
Inactive ingredients
Hypromellose, Sodium lauryl sulphate, Microcrystalline cellulose, Magnesium stearate. The capsule shell contains: gelatin and titanium dioxide (E171)
Patient information leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
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