The choices for acne treatment are many and varied. Tetracycline is an antibiotic that helps reduce the symptoms of acne, if not totally eliminate the problem. Tetracycline is a prescription drug that is generally advised in severe cases of acne.
What is tetracycline?
Tetracycline is popularly known by its trade name Achromycin. This antibiotic is derived from microorganisms of the taxonomic group Streptomyces. This is widely used to treat infections of various kinds. Tetracycline has two derivatives namely: minocycline and doxycycline.
These prescription medications are now used in the treatment of acne as well. These drugs are antibiotics that potentially help fight against acne causing bacteria and reduce the symptoms of severe acne. It is to be noted that antibiotics are not a complete cure for acne. Tetracycline should be used in conjunction with other acne treatment methods.
using tetracycline to treat acne
Tetracycline is strictly a prescription medication and should not be taken without a dermatologist’s prescription. Very severe cases of acne will require higher doses of the drug. Advanced acne treatment with tetracycline is a long term procedure that could last from several months to a couple of years. This is because the drug is very strong and the doses are administered on low levels.
Tetracycline is also used in the treatment of skin disorders such as rosacea and perioral dermatitis. The main function of this drug in acne treatment is to reduce the formation of bacteria in the follicles, pores, and the surface of the skin. Tetracycline also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce swelling.
Propionibacterium is the bacteria related to acne. These bacteria feed on the sebum and subsequently produce fatty acids that aggravate the sebaceous glands. This results in pimples and blemishes. Tetracycline destroys these bacteria on the skin and curbs their growth.
What you should keep in mind during acne treatment with tetracycline
The use of Tetracycline during pregnancy should be avoided. Tetracycline could inhibit the growth of bones and cause skeletal mutations in the fetus. Women may suffer from thrush or other fungal infections because of this antibiotic. Nausea, diarrhea, and skin rashes are some of the side effects of Tetracycline. Acne treatment with Tetracycline usually causes the skin to become sensitive to light. One should avoid sun exposure and the use of sun lamps.
Tetracycline should be stored away from sunlight in a cool place. Food in the stomach restricts the absorption of Tetracycline into the bloodstream. It is advised that the drug be taken a couple of hours before meals or on empty stomach.
